The Bell Centre, a venerated arena typically reserved for high-stakes NHL action, recently played host to a different kind of spectacle: the Montreal Canadiens prospects game. While the calendar still whispered “September,” the air was thick with the distinct roar of a crowd fully invested, their attention raptly fixed on a single, compelling figure: Ivan Demidov. The performance delivered by the 19-year-old Russian phenom was not merely good; it was a declarative statement, a vibrant prelude to what many believe will be an illustrious NHL career.
A Masterclass in Puck Handling and Playmaking
Demidov, the fifth-overall selection in the 2024 NHL Draft, orchestrated a performance that can only be described as a highlight reel in progress. From the moment the puck found his stick, a palpable shift occurred in the arena`s energy. Fans, many of whom might usually reserve such fervor for playoff hockey, rose to their feet, their collective anticipation a hum that crescendoed into chants of his name. This wasn`t just idle enthusiasm; it was a recognition of unique talent.
His impact was immediate and decisive. Demidov not only set up linemates Florian Xhekaj and Oliver Kapanen for pivotal goals but also added a stunning, highlight-worthy goal of his own. His ability to toy with the Winnipeg Jets prospects in the first two periods, then seemingly to outright embarrass them in the third, underscored a rare combination of skill, vision, and competitive drive. As one might sardonically note, playing at that level against fellow prospects almost feels unfair, yet it is precisely this disparity that fuels the soaring expectations.
The Montreal Phenomenon: Anticipation Personified
The Montreal hockey faithful possess a unique capacity for enthusiasm, especially when a star begins to ascend. Even in a pre-season showcase, the noise was deafening, the excitement palpable. It`s a phenomenon that Head Coach Pascal Vincent of the Laval Rocket, who managed the Canadiens` bench for the game, noted with appreciation:
“Every time you send (Demidov) on the ice, you get the impression something`s going to happen. And something does happen, and we get a chance to score. He`s a guy who`s worked on his game. He`s still young, he`ll continue to improve. But he`s a player who can make the difference on every shift. For a coach, that`s fun to have.”
This level of sustained buzz, the sense that every shift could yield a moment of magic, is a hallmark of Montreal`s most revered players. Demidov, even at this nascent stage, has clearly tapped into that deep well of fan passion. It speaks volumes about his magnetism on the ice, suggesting that the “Demidov Show” is indeed just beginning for the Canadiens faithful.
Beyond Demidov: Glimpses of a Promising Future
While Demidov rightfully stole the headlines, the prospects game also offered encouraging signs from other future Habs hopefuls:
- Florian Xhekaj: The forward showcased more than just brawn. His off-season dedication, evidenced by a 15-pound gain, was complemented by notable skill and hockey sense. Alongside Demidov, Xhekaj registered a goal and an assist, proving he belongs in such company.
- Jacob Fowler: The reigning NCAA Goaltender of the Year, drafted 69th in 2023, delivered a flawless Bell Centre debut, stopping all 11 shots he faced in his half of the game. A solid performance indicating composure under pressure.
- David Reinbacher: The fifth-overall pick from 2023, a defenceman, demonstrated poise, strong skating, and exceptional hockey sense, despite some rust from a past knee injury. Scouts noted his advanced understanding of the game, highlighting a player who consistently thinks ahead.
- Owen Beck: The 33rd-overall pick in 2022, Beck impressed with his versatility. Coach Vincent praised him as “a guy who skates, who goes to the net, who`s physical, who can play on the power play as well as the penalty kill, who can play on the wing or at centre. He`s got a lot of interesting tools, and he`s a cerebral guy.”
The Privilege of the Jersey
The prospects game serves a dual purpose: a competitive proving ground and a unique experience. As Coach Vincent succinctly put it, for some, it’s a moment they’ll recount for generations – the singular instance they donned an NHL jersey. This sense of privilege was clearly felt by captain Luke Tuch, whose emotional response to wearing the “C” underscored the profound significance of the Canadiens crest. It is a powerful reminder that while only a select few will reach the pinnacle, these events are vital for evaluating how young players perform under the bright lights of expectation.
Conclusion: A Glimmer of Hope for Canadiens Fans
The 2025 prospects game in Montreal was more than just a pre-season exhibition. It was a compelling preview, a tangible demonstration of the raw talent brewing within the Canadiens` system. Ivan Demidov, with his dazzling array of skills and electrifying presence, stands at the forefront of this new wave, igniting visions of future Stanley Cup parades. Supported by a cohort of other promising young players, the future, for those draped in red, white, and blue, appears not just bright, but positively incandescent.
