The spotlight in Montreal has quietly shifted to a brewing controversy that could have major implications for the Canadiens’ playoff run. Despite his much-anticipated debut and undeniable talent, Ivan Demidov has found himself spending more time on the bench than on the ice, raising eyebrows among fans and analysts alike.

The young winger’s limited minutes have left many questioning the strategy of head coach Martin St-Louis, especially given Demidov’s reputation as a game-changer. Even opposing coaches have acknowledged the threat Demidov poses, making his reduced role all the more puzzling. Now, with speculation swirling that he could be scratched entirely from the lineup, the debate is intensifying.

Former Canadiens goaltender José Théodore has added fuel to the fire by suggesting that such a move wouldn’t surprise him, citing Demidov’s lack of established chemistry with the team.As the Canadiens prepare for crucial games ahead, all eyes are on St-Louis and his next lineup decision—a choice that could shape the narrative of Montreal’s postseason and the future of one of their brightest young stars.

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

A story that has somewhat flown under the radar in recent days is the limited use of forward Ivan Demidov by Martin St-Louis in Montreal.

After logging nearly 17 minutes in his debut, Demidov has mostly been warming the bench, playing only 10 minutes against the Carolina Hurricanes and barely 11 minutes in Game 1 against the Washington Capitals.

That’s quite disappointing, considering how capable he is of changing a game on his own.

Even the head coach of the Washington Capitals, Spencer Carbery, mentioned how much they fear Demidov.

Well, they must be happy to see he’s being used so sparingly right now.

José Théodore wouldn’t be surprised if Ivan Demidov were removed from the Montreal Canadiens lineup by Martin St-Louis in an upcoming game

I have a feeling that wouldn’t go over too well with everyone.

José Théodore: “If you told me Demidov is coming out of the lineup tomorrow, I wouldn’t be surprised” [DansLesCoulisses]

Speaking on 98.5 Sports, former Canadiens goaltender José Théodore said he wouldn’t be surprised to see Demidov scratched in the coming days.

That’s what he’s been hearing too.

Wow.

Do you think this would be the right decision for Martin St-Louis and the Canadiens?

“If Martin St-Louis decides to sit Demidov on Wednesday night, Théodore wouldn’t be surprised at all and would find it perfectly normal.

According to him, Demidov is the kind of player who can easily be left out. He’s just arrived with the team, so he hasn’t yet built chemistry with his teammates.”

– DansLesCoulisses

It’s also worth mentioning that Martin St-Louis really doesn’t know him very well yet.

When Théodore points out Demidov’s -2 rating in Game 1, the host of Les amateurs de sports, Mario Langlois, rightly reminds everyone that Demidov is playing 5-on-5 with Patrik Laine, which doesn’t exactly help his plus-minus.

In short, this will be something to watch closely during this series against the Washington Capitals