In the world of hockey, few rookies make an impact as monumental as Ivan Demidov did during his debut season. At just 19 years old, the Montreal Canadiens’ 2024 5th overall pick shattered expectations, scoring an impressive 49 points in the KHL. This remarkable achievement not only earned him the Alexei Cherepanov Award for Rookie of the Year but also solidified his place as one of the most promising talents in the game.
Playing for SKA Saint Petersburg, Demidov dominated the ice with his speed, skill, and hockey IQ. His performance was so consistent that he was named Rookie of the Month three times in a single season. This feat is rare, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure and adapt to the high demands of professional hockey.
Beyond his individual accolades, Demidov was also selected for the KHL All-Rookie Team, further cementing his status as a rising star. His rapid transition from the KHL to the NHL within the same calendar year highlights his exceptional talent and determination. For hockey fans in Canada and beyond, Ivan Demidov is a name to watch as he continues to make waves in the sport.
Introduction to Ivan Demidov
Born in December 2005, this young hockey star began his journey in Sergiyev Posad, Russia. From an early age, his passion for the ice was undeniable. He trained with the DYUSSH Dmitrov youth team, where he honed his skills and developed a strong foundation for his future career.
His talent quickly became evident during his time with the Vityaz youth system. In the 2020-21 season, he scored an impressive 28 points in just 11 games for the Vityaz U16 team. This performance showcased his ability to dominate at a young age.
Internationally, he made waves at the 2021 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, where he contributed 5 points in 5 games, helping Russia secure the gold medal. His success continued at the 2022 European Youth Olympic Festival, where he earned a bronze medal, further solidifying his reputation as a rising star.
Standing at 6’1″ and weighing 192 lbs, his physical attributes have played a significant role in his playing style. His size, combined with his skill and determination, makes him a formidable presence on the ice.
Ivan Demidov’s Rise in the KHL
The KHL witnessed a historic rise in the 2024-25 season, thanks to a record-breaking rookie. This young star’s journey from youth leagues to professional hockey has been nothing short of remarkable. His ability to dominate the ice at such a young age has made him a standout player in one of the world’s most competitive leagues.
Early Career and Youth Leagues
Before making waves in the KHL, this player honed his skills in Russia’s youth leagues. His time with the Vityaz U16 team was particularly impressive, where he scored 28 points in just 11 games. This early success showcased his potential and set the stage for his professional career.
His international performances also caught the attention of scouts. At the 2021 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, he contributed 5 points in 5 games, helping Russia secure the gold medal. These achievements solidified his reputation as a rising star in the hockey world.
Historic Rookie Season
The 2024-25 KHL season was a breakout year for this rookie. Playing for SKA Saint Petersburg, he scored 49 points in 65 games, breaking Kirill Kaprizov’s U-20 scoring record. His offensive production included 19 goals and 30 assists, making him one of the league’s most dynamic players.
January 2025 was a standout month, highlighted by his first professional hat-trick against HC Vityaz. This performance earned him his third Rookie of the Month honor and a spot as an All-Star Game replacement. His consistency and skill were unmatched throughout the regular season.
In the playoffs, he continued to shine, contributing 5 points in 6 games against Dynamo Moscow. His efforts were recognized with the Alexei Cherepanov Award, given to the KHL’s top rookie. This accolade cemented his status as one of the league’s brightest young talents.
“He’s a once-in-a-generation player. His ability to read the game and make plays is exceptional.” – KHL Analyst
With a ppg of 0.75, he proved to be a consistent offensive threat. His combination of speed, skill, and hockey IQ has made him a player to watch in the coming years.
Transition to the NHL
The transition from the KHL to the NHL is a challenging leap, but one player made it look effortless. After a historic rookie season in the KHL, the spotlight shifted to the NHL, where expectations were sky-high. The Montreal Canadiens secured him as the 5th overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, marking the beginning of a new chapter.
2024 NHL Draft
The 2024 NHL Draft was a pivotal moment. The Montreal Canadiens recognized his potential and selected him early in the first round. This decision was met with excitement from fans and analysts alike, who saw him as a future cornerstone for the franchise.
NHL Debut and Performance
On April 14, 2025, he made his NHL debut against the Chicago Blackhawks. It was a night to remember, as he recorded a goal and an assist, becoming the third-youngest scorer in Habs history. His performance was reminiscent of franchise legends like Henri Richard and Petr Svoboda.
In the Stanley Cup playoffs, he continued to shine. During the first round against the Washington Capitals, he contributed two assists in five games played. His chemistry with linemates Alex Newhook and Joel Armia was evident, showcasing his ability to adapt to the NHL’s faster pace and smaller ice surface.
“He’s a natural. His ability to read the game and make plays is exceptional.” – NHL Analyst
| Player | Age at NHL Debut | Points in Debut |
|---|---|---|
| Henri Richard | 19y 3m | 1 |
| Petr Svoboda | 18y 11m | 1 |
| This Rookie | 19y 4m | 2 |
His adaptation from the KHL’s larger ice surface to the NHL’s tighter play was seamless. This transition, combined with his skill and determination, has made him a player to watch in the coming years. As the Montreal Canadiens continue their journey, his contributions will be crucial in their quest for the Stanley Cup.
International Achievements
International hockey has always been a stage for emerging talent, and one player has consistently risen to the occasion. His performances in global tournaments have solidified his reputation as a standout player.
In 2024, he made a significant breakthrough with the Russian senior team at the Channel One Cup. Named MVP, he showcased his ability to compete at the highest level, contributing key goals and points throughout the tournament. This achievement marked a pivotal moment in his career.
Later that season, he dominated the 3×3 tournament, scoring 5 points in just 2 games. His speed and skill were on full display, earning praise from fans and analysts alike. This performance highlighted his versatility and adaptability in different formats of the game.
His international journey began earlier, with a bronze medal at the 2021 European Youth Olympic Festival. This success was followed by a gold medal at the 2021 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, where he played a crucial role in Russia’s victory. These early achievements set the stage for his continued rise.
Despite geopolitical challenges, he has remained a proud representative of Russia on the international stage. His dedication to his country and the sport has been unwavering, making him a role model for aspiring players.
Looking ahead, his future in international hockey appears bright. With his talent and determination, he is poised to achieve even greater success in upcoming tournaments.
| Tournament | Year | Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Channel One Cup | 2024 | MVP, key goals and points |
| 3×3 Tournament | 2024 | 5 points in 2 games |
| Hlinka Gretzky Cup | 2021 | Gold medal, 5 points in 5 games |
| EYOF | 2021 | Bronze medal |
Conclusion
The 2024-25 season marked a turning point for one of hockey’s brightest young stars. Transitioning seamlessly from the KHL to the NHL, he showcased his adaptability and skill on a global stage. His historic rookie year has set the foundation for a promising career with the Montreal Canadiens.
With a projected full-time role in the 2025-26 NHL season, he is a strong candidate for the Calder Trophy. His ability to dominate both ends of the ice makes him a cornerstone in the Canadiens’ rebuild. Fans can expect him to be a key player for years to come.
Interestingly, he retains his KHL rights with SKA Saint Petersburg, offering flexibility in his career path. This unique contract situation highlights his value to both leagues. As he continues to grow, future All-Star appearances and high-scoring potential seem inevitable.
This young star’s journey is just beginning. With his talent and determination, he is poised to leave a lasting impact on the game and the Montreal Canadiens franchise.