As the Montreal Canadiens enter this 25-26 season, they have yet another shiny new toy to play with as a full year of Ivan Demidov approaches the horizon.
Ivan Demidov was one of the most notable players in last weekend’s prospect showcase tournament, scoring 1 goal and adding 2 assists. He also made a ridiculous Pavel Datsyuk like self pass behind the net to himself that awed the Habs faithful.
The Canadiens have a good chance of having back to back Calder trophy winners as Demidov looks more and more like the early favorite for the award heading into the season.
Why is Demidov considered the Calder favorite?
Via The Athletic’s Arpon Basu, Ivan Demidov showed “he did not belong” on the ice in the Canadiens prospect tournament. So dominant was his performance in the first game, the squad scratched him in game 2 not feeling the player needed the reps. The team felt it was important for Demidov to be ready to go for training camp, rather than risk injury in a low stakes game.
Overall, Demidov is considered the Calder favorite by many covering the game because of this obvious skill on display, the likes of which the hockey world got a taste of last weekend. Demidov does come into this season with some NHL experience already, having made his debut at the end of last year. He also suited up just in time for the Canadiens playoff run.
Demidov will aim to continue Montreal’s run of Calder trophy winning rookie going this year with teammate Lane Hutson taking home the award last season. Most sport’s books have put the odds in the Russian’s favor.
