While the leaves outside Bell Centre were still a vibrant green, not yet hinting at the full chill of Canadian autumn, inside, the heat was undeniably on. What might typically be considered a low-stakes prospect game transformed into a captivating spectacle, all thanks to one exceptional talent.
The Emergence of a Star: Demidov`s Dominance
For fans of the Montreal Canadiens, the name Ivan Demidov has been synonymous with future promise since he was selected fifth overall in the 2024 NHL Draft. Yet, even the most optimistic among the faithful might not have anticipated the sheer brilliance showcased at the recent prospects game against the Winnipeg Jets. Demidov, a 19-year-old Russian forward, didn`t just play; he put on a show.
From the moment he stepped onto the ice, the young phenom commanded attention. His stickhandling, vision, and uncanny ability to find open ice were on full display. He masterfully set up his linemates, Florian Xhekaj and Oliver Kapanen, for two impressive goals, demonstrating a playmaking ability that belies his age. But it was his own highlight-reel goal that truly solidified his performance as a standout moment. Careening in on a breakaway, Demidov exhibited a blend of speed, control, and precision that left the Jets` prospects—and the Bell Centre crowd—in awe.
Montreal`s Unwavering Passion: A Crowd Electrified
One might reasonably expect a prospects game to be a somewhat subdued affair, a low-stakes dress rehearsal for the main event. In Montreal, however, hockey is never “subdued.” The Bell Centre, though not entirely sold out, buzzed with an energy usually reserved for the thick of playoff contention. Fans were not merely watching; they were participating. Each time Demidov touched the puck, a collective gasp followed by an immediate roar underscored the exceptional nature of his talent. Chants of his name echoed through the arena, a clear indication that the city has already embraced its newest potential superstar.
Laval Rocket head coach Pascal Vincent, who oversaw the Canadiens` bench, succinctly captured the sentiment: “Every time you send (Demidov) on the ice, you get the impression something’s going to happen. And something does happen, and we get a chance to score. What he can do on the ice isn’t luck. He’s a guy who’s worked on his game.” This endorsement from a coach who won`t have the luxury of coaching Demidov beyond this weekend speaks volumes.
Beyond Demidov: A Deep Well of Talent
While Demidov rightfully stole the headlines, the prospects game offered a tantalizing glimpse into the broader future of the Montreal Canadiens. The organization`s commitment to rebuilding through its draft pipeline is yielding promising results:
- Florian Xhekaj: Alongside Demidov, Xhekaj proved he`s more than just a physical presence. After gaining 15 pounds in the off-season, he added a goal and an assist, showcasing improved hockey sense and skill. His ability to blend grit with offensive touch makes him a compelling prospect.
- Jacob Fowler: The 69th pick in the 2023 Draft and reigning NCAA goaltender of the year, Fowler delivered a flawless performance in his half of the game, stopping all 11 shots he faced. His composure and technical proficiency suggest a bright future between the pipes.
- David Reinbacher: The fifth-overall pick from 2023, Reinbacher, showed immense potential despite admitting some rust from a serious knee injury last season. His poise, fluid skating, and astute hockey sense were evident. As one scout remarked, “He’s going to be really good. You can just see it in his movement, and in the way he always seems to know what he’s going to do in advance.”
- Owen Beck: The 33rd-overall pick in 2022, Beck impressed with his versatility and intelligence. Coach Vincent lauded him as a player who “skates, goes to the net, who’s physical, who can play on the power play as well as the penalty kill, who can play on the wing or at centre. He’s got a lot of interesting tools, and he’s a cerebral guy.”
A New Era Dawns for the Canadiens
This prospect showcase was more than just an exhibition; it was a powerful statement about the direction of the Montreal Canadiens. The raw talent, combined with the palpable excitement from the fan base, paints a vibrant picture of what`s to come. Players like Demidov are not merely prospects; they are the architects of the team`s next chapter, expected to bring renewed hope and, dare we say, a return to glory.
The anticipation surrounding Ivan Demidov is reaching a fever pitch, suggesting that this “show” has only just begun. If this was merely an appetizer, fans are already clamoring for the main course, and perhaps dessert too. The future, it seems, is looking decidedly red, white, and exceptionally bright in Montreal.
