Speculation is rising about Montreal Canadiens’ first-round pick, Ivan Demidov. Marco D’Amico of RG.org reports that Demidov’s playing time with SKA has decreased following Evgeny Kuznetsov’s injury but is now beginning to increase again. He has one year remaining on his contract with SKA. Coach Roman Rotenberg emphasized that while they consider outside opinions, their primary focus is on their team’s needs and player development. “We are equally invested in ensuring that Ivan, along with our other young players, progresses well, as they represent the future of Russian hockey,” Rotenberg remarked.
Though SKA has a development strategy for the 18-year-old Demidov, he should expect some challenges ahead. His contract runs until May 31, 2025, and he plans to fulfill it.
Nicolas Cloutier from TVA Sports reports, through Google Translate, that a source close to Demidov’s camp revealed he was benched after rejecting three contract extension offers from SKA St. Petersburg. “Ivan turned them down each time,” said the source. “He isn’t interested in another year with SKA.” One of the offers allegedly included a two-year deal worth about $560,000 CAD, plus potential bonuses exceeding $560,000 CAD.
Agent Dan Milstein remains silent while Demidov competes in the KHL. Since being drafted, Demidov has aimed to transition to North America by the 2025-26 season. It’s worth noting that the KHL has a track record of manipulating young Russian players’ ice time to secure longer commitments, as seen in the cases of Alexander Romanov and others.
