Outpoll | Ivan Demidov scores and assists in Montreal's game against Seattle.

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Ivan Demidov scores and assists in Montreal's game against Seattle.

Ivan Demidov scores and assists in Montreal's game against Seattle.

2 days ago7 min read4 comments

In a display of burgeoning talent that had the Bell Centre faithful buzzing with the kind of hope not felt since the halcyon days of Saku Koivu, Montreal Canadiens' forward Ivan Demidov delivered a performance of sheer class and clutch composure against the Seattle Kraken, a showing that earned him the game's second star and solidified his status as a cornerstone of the franchise's future. The young Russian, with the ice in his veins of a veteran, announced his presence early, orchestrating the opening goal with a sublime, vision-filled pass to Alex Newhook just five minutes in, a play that showcased a hockey IQ reminiscent of a young Pavel Datsyuk, dissecting the Kraken's defensive structure with surgical precision.But it was in the dying embers of the third period, with the Canadiens trailing and the game on the line, that Demidov truly etched his name into the narrative, finding the back of the net with just two minutes remaining to tie the game at 4-4 and force an overtime that felt like a victory in itself. This pivotal moment wasn't just a goal; it was a statement of intent from a player who understands the weight of the jersey he wears, a moment that draws immediate parallels to the legendary clutch gene of Canadiens greats like Maurice Richard, who thrived when the pressure was at its absolute peak.Through just four games this season, Demidov has already amassed three points (1 goal, 2 assists), but the raw statistics only tell a fraction of the story; his 14:43 of ice time, including a crucial 2:03 on the power play, was a masterclass in efficient, high-impact hockey, marked by a solitary shot on goal, two blocked shots, and a tangible +1 rating that underscores his two-way commitment, even while managing three turnovers and a pair of penalty minutes that speak to the aggressive, high-risk style he employs. Looking at the broader context, Demidov's rapid adaptation to the North American game is a testament not only to his immense skill but to a work ethic that aligns perfectly with the blue-collar identity Montreal has always cherished, suggesting that General Manager Kent Hughes may have unearthed not just a skilled forward, but a future leader capable of steering this historic franchise back to its former glory.The implications for the Canadiens' rebuild are profound; with a core featuring Demidov, Nick Suzuki, and Cole Caufield, the team is assembling an offensive arsenal that could rival any in the Eastern Conference in the coming years, provided they continue to develop this chemistry and fortify their defensive corps. Analyst and former player Pierre LeBrun has noted that Demidov's playmaking ability, particularly in tight spaces, is already among the elite for his age group, a skill set that will be crucial as Montreal navigates the grueling Atlantic Division, a gauntlet featuring the likes of the powerhouse Florida Panthers and the ever-dangerous Toronto Maple Leafs. This performance against Seattle, a team known for its structured defensive system, proves that Demidov is not just a product of hype; he is a player who rises to the occasion, a quality that cannot be taught and one that separates good players from the legends he seems destined to emulate in the storied history of the Montreal Canadiens.