In Montreal, we love Ivan Demidov.
Well yes… Even if he has not yet played a single career match in a Canadian uniform.
It’s the same as Lane Hutson and Cole Caufield, in the background. We all couldn’t wait to see them arrive in Montreal…
The excitement is there when we talk about the Canadian’s hope because since his selection 5th overall in the 2024 draft, positive comments come out everywhere when he is talked about.
Speaking of the draft: Tony DeAngelo believes that Demidov should never have slipped to the Canadian’s choice.
He doesn’t understand why other teams ignored him because according to the former NHL defenseman who now plays with Demidov in Russia, the latter has “world-class” talent.
DeAngelo was passing through Morning Cuppa Hockey podcast and he really wanted to throw flowers to his teammate:
During his appearance on the podcast, DeAngelo also said that he sees Demidov becoming a top-6 winger with 30 goals per season… Worst case scenario.
And – and I say yes – Demidov progresses as DeAngelo predicts, the Canadian will have one of the best players in the National League in his hands.
But that’s why the defender’s comments are interesting: he meets Demidov almost every day, he is in the best possible situation to see him progress… And we must not rule out the fact that DeAngelo knows the National League.
He still played eight seasons in the NHL, which is no small feat. He knows what he’s talking about.
But you still have to be careful here.
Obviously, as much as everyone wishes DeAngelo was right, chances are that won’t work out too. And I’m not saying that to denigrate Ivan Demidov’s talent: it can happen to any talented prospect who makes the jump to the NHL. There have been examples in the past and this cannot be ruled out.
On the other hand, when we see an 18-year-old player having success in the KHL because he has skills, because his skating is on point and because he has undeniable offensive qualities, it’s good sign for the future.
And obviously, that’s what DeAngelo focuses on when he sees his teammate on the ice.
In burst
– Interesting.
– Artem Zub has a long-term injury.
– The three stars of the week in the NHL.
