Hockey

Ivan Demidov: the boys are already preparing to face him as if he were Nikita Kucherov
Félix Forget
Ivan Demidov: the boys are already preparing to face him as if he were Nikita Kucherov
Credit: Getty Images

In ten days' time, Ivan Demidov will begin his first full NHL season. The talented young Russian forward has the potential to become a huge part of what's being built in Montreal, and itgoes without saying that he'll be one of the most watched players in town this year.Because yes, people in Montreal are thinking big for the kid this year. But it's not just in Montreal that Demidov is attracting attention. Maxim Lapierre, who spoke to The Sheet, said that this summer, he's been talking to players around the league… and they're already getting ready to take on Demidov.In fact, they're getting ready to take him on just like they're getting ready to take on… Nikita Kucherov. Nothing less. https://youtu.be/a6vlsshXJzc?si=D_EIg6JlW44zUTZZ&t=700

This isn't the first time Kucherov's name has come up when Demidov is mentioned. That said, what's really interesting about Lapierre's comments is that defensemen across the league are preparing for a player of this calibre this season.We know how talented the kid is and that he has a style reminiscent of Kucherov.It‘s illogical to think that Demidov will have as dominant a season as Kucherov, who is capable of scoring over 100 points with his eyes closed. The kid may need a period of adjustment (and it could be a few years before he reaches his full potential), but to see a rookie earn so much respect from his opponents is quite something.Demidov still needs to be helped by his linemates (and that's a topic of debate around town), but players across the league are already waiting for him to take the detour.Spacer title='Overtime']–I love it!

– Well done.

– Nice read.

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