Ivan Demidov reveals where he wants to play, and the answer is surprising
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The top prospect and first pick by the Montreal Canadiens in the most recent 2024 draft, forward Ivan Demidov, has just revealed where he wants to play next season.
In a recent interview, the fifth overall pick made a rather surprising statement, but one that also shows a remarkable level of maturity.
When asked about the rumors suggesting that he wanted to play in the NHL as early as the 2024-2025 season, Ivan Demidov responded with the best possible answer.
"I'm not ready to go there [to North America] in general. I want to stay here one more year. I think it's too early for me right now; I need to work more [before joining the Montreal Canadiens]."
- Ivan Demidov
- Ivan Demidov
This response certainly cools the excitement of those who believed he would be in the starting lineup with the Canadiens for the first game of the regular season.
Ivan Demidov announces He wants to stay in his home country a little longer
Ivan Demidov even mentioned that he would be willing to play in the VHL, a league considered to be the "American League" of the KHL, if necessary and if it would be beneficial for his development. Overall, this would be quite surprising!
Clearly, the young player is very "down to earth" and has a great attitude. It's a refreshing change from some of his compatriots, to put it mildly.
Nevertheless, there is a strong hope that he can have a good role with SKA Saint Petersburg in the Kontinental Hockey League.
Last season, Ivan Demidov scored a total of 34 goals and 54 assists (88 points) in 47 regular-season and playoff games in Russian junior hockey. He dominated the league, as we would say!
He was also named the Most Valuable Player in the MHL for the second consecutive year.
While expectations are high for him, it's important to give him time to adjust to the NHL.
| POLL | ||
12 AOUT | 200 ANSWERS Ivan Demidov reveals where he wants to play, and the answer is surprising If Ivan Demidov plays in KHL this year, do you think he will be better than Matvei Michkov was last year? | ||
| Yes | 173 | 86.5 % |
| No | 27 | 13.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
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