The Montreal Canadiens rookies fell short by a score of 4-3 against those of the Winnipeg Jets last night in their rookie showcase opener. Domenic DiVincentiis was stellar for Winnipeg, earning the win despite a 41-25 deficit on the shot clock. Thankfully, the wins and losses at this event are immaterial, and the team is more looking to see which rookies are ready for the next step in their development.
Ivan Demidov’s place on the Habs’ roster was never in doubt, and yet, he played as if he had something to prove to everyone watching.
Ladies and gentlemen, Ivan Demidov. #gohabsgo pic.twitter.com/TqDUH4AQSf
— Matt Drake (@DrakeMT) September 14, 2025
He was the best player on the ice by a relatively wide margin. He factored in on every goal for his team, including the above dangle that tied the game late in an ill-fated third period. A packed Bell Centre was audibly excited every time he had the chance to touch the puck, and he did not disappoint them.
Three points might have been a bit of a ho-hum result for him, to be honest. He seemed to be focusing on trying to set up his teammates more than keeping opportunities for himself, which may have held him back a little. Still, he put on a show that isn’t likely to quell any of the hype around his official rookie season.
Gonna go out on a limb here and say that this Demidov character just might make the roster. pic.twitter.com/GerPu43yAK
— Matt Drake (@DrakeMT) September 14, 2025
Even though he is likely above this level of competition at this point, it is important to remember that he was out there with his peers. Some players in that game have significantly more experience in North American pro hockey than him. He’s not going to put up three points per game against NHL rosters, but at the very least we know that he’s ready to be out there with the best.
For more thoughts on the game and players involved, click the play button below to listen to your full Bottom Six Minutes. We’ll be back later today with another episode following the clash with the Toronto Maple Leafs’ rookies.
