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Top NHL prospect officially leaves Russia before end of contract for NHL
Photo credit: Candice Ward Getty Images
Top prospect Ivan Demidov is officially leaving Russia and joining the Montreal Canadiens for the remainder of the 2024-25 season.
Just a couple days after a huge day of celebration for Russian hockey fans, the next Russian superstar may be on his way to the NHL sooner than expected.
Ivan Demidov leaves KHL contract behind
Ivan Demidov was the 5th overall pick in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft, and has been considered one of the top drafted prospects outside of the NHL.
He may have been playing for the Canadiens already this season, however the 19 year old was still under contract with SKA St. Petersburg of the KHL.
The team could have kept Demidov until the end of their minor league season, but announced on Twitter on Tuesday that the young forward would be leaving the team.
Thank you, Ivan
SKA and Ivan Demidov have taken a joint decision which will see the forward join the Montreal Canadiens this season. His KHL rights will remain with SKA. He will return to Saint Petersburg if he doesn't gain a foothold in the NHL.
SKA and Ivan Demidov have taken a joint decision which will see the forward join the Montreal Canadiens this season. His KHL rights will remain with SKA. He will return to Saint Petersburg if he doesn't gain a foothold in the NHL.
The Russian team's announcement was confirmed by insiders and Demidov's 3 year entry level deal was officially announced later in the day by the Canadiens.
Demidov will burn the first year of his 3 year contract this season, and can join the Canadiens if they make the playoffs.
Currently holding the 2nd and final wild card spot in the Eastern conference, Demidov could potentially jump into the Canadiens lineup as soon as this weekend as they seek to secure a return to the playoffs.
| POLL | ||
AVRIL 9 | 229 ANSWERS Top NHL prospect officially leaves Russia before end of contract for NHL Will Ivan Demidov immediately make an impact for the Montreal Canadiens? | ||
| Yes | 144 | 62.9 % |
| No | 85 | 37.1 % |
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