Ivan Demidov might just be the most creative forward to come out of the NHL draft in the last five years. He also happens to be an absurdly skilled playmaker, stick-handler, and goal-scorer, who uses those tools in perfect combination with his ability to read defences and his limitless inventiveness to slice through the offensive zone and leave his mark on every game.
In this video scouting report, I present voiceover analysis of Demidov’s historic MHL season and explain how his game-breaking skill and creativity led to him putting up two points per game in Russia’s Junior league. I also delve into the details of Demidov’s off-puck game, his offensive routes, his defensive involvement, his skating, and his physical play.
The Montreal Canadiens haven’t had anyone in their organization with this level of pure creative ability since Alex Kovalev left the organization in 2009, and Demidov has the potential to rival the fellow Russian forward in game-to-game impact and ‘wow’ factor. The Habs could very well have drafted their franchise cornerstone at fifth overall in the 2024 NHL Draft.
Timestamps:
0:00 — Introduction + production comparisons
2:29 — Stick-handling
6:28 — Goal-scoring ability
7:59 — Playmaking and awareness
10:19 — Off-puck movement and routes
11:56 — Skating details and concerns
12:58 — Defensive game and forechecking
14:30 — Physical game and proactive contact
14:59 — Outro and Demidov highlights
Thanks for watching — follow me on Twitter @HadiK_Scouting for more prospects-related content, and to keep up with the rest of my work!
