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Calder 2026: Ivan Demidov is the favourite (by far)
Charles-Alexis Brisebois
Calder 2026: Ivan Demidov is the favourite (by far)
Credit: Getty Images
Rookie awards.

In 2024-2025, Ivan Demidov won KHL Rookie of the Year. And Lane Hutson won the same title, but in the best league in the world.

This was a possible scenario for the Habs organization, and it worked out just fine.

But now, looking ahead to next season, we’re wondering whether Ivan Demidov will be able to get his hands on the Calder Trophy in the NHL and succeed Lane Hutson.

Theoretically, his chances are good, considering his talent and the fact that there is no Connor Bedard or Macklin Celebrini in the 2025 draft.

But how good are his chances?

A look at bet365 shows not only that Demidov is at the top of the rankings, but also how monstrous the difference is between the Habs prospect and Alexander Nikishin. An odds of 2.60 or 9.00, that’s a world of difference.

Obviously, it’s all going to come down to the ice. It’s possible that a prospect will emerge unexpectedly elsewhere in the NHL and put a spanner in Demidov’s works.

No doubt he’ll want to win the trophy, but above all, the Habs will want him to play up to his immense talent. That’s the most important thing.

Let’s not forget that his seven games of NHL experience, including five in the playoffs against the Washington Capitals, will help him prepare this summer… just as Lane Hutson’s two games in 2023-2024 also helped him.

Having an excellent center could also help him win the Calder.


overtime

– One to watch.

– He could have signed the Sabres jersey anyway. It’s not like it’s an Oilers jersey….

– Playing in Sunrise has transformed Brad Marchand’s reputation.

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