Every autumn, as the leaves begin to fall in Montreal, the arrival of hockey training camp brings with it a sense of electrifying anticipation.

For fans of the Canadiens, this is the season of hope—the moment when every new combination on the ice could signal the dawn of something extraordinary.

This year, however, the sense of curiosity and excitement has reached an entirely new level, thanks to the arrival of a young superstar whose name has already become the talk of the city: Ivan Demidov.

Rumors have swirled for months about how Demidov’s rare talent would be integrated into the Canadiens’ lineup. Who would be trusted to skate alongside him?

Would the coaching staff make a safe, predictable choice, or would they take a risk that could redefine the team’s identity for years to come?

The answer, when it came, was both surprising and thrilling—yet it’s only the beginning of the story.

Behind the scenes, bold decisions have been made, and the chemistry on the ice is already sparking whispers among insiders and fans alike.

What exactly is unfolding during these pivotal first days of camp?

The revelations might just change everything you thought you knew about the Canadiens’ future.

Apr 14, 2025; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens right wing Ivan Demidov (93) skates with a puck in warm-up before the game against the Chicago Blackhawks at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Every fall, training camps bring their share of questions, and it’s especially the time when fans let themselves dream-when every potential line can seem magical, and when even the smallest combination can become the talk of the entire team!

You never know if it will be a young player who surprises, a veteran who finds new life, or an instant chemistry that changes everything.

In Montreal, this training camp was already highly anticipated.

Since Ivan Demidov’s arrival, everyone had been wondering who would have the task of supporting him to maximize his incredible talent. We knew the answer would come eventually, but rarely this early and with such clarity.

Ivan Demidov’s line with Kirby Dach and Patrik Laine

From day one, Martin St-Louis decided to place Kirby Dach at center with Ivan Demidov and Patrik Laine.

A bold choice, but one that immediately sparks excitement. Dach, when healthy, has shown he can be very solid.

Putting him between a young prodigy and a proven goal scorer gives him a unique chance to prove he can truly fill the role of the Canadiens’ second-line center.

For Patrik Laine, let’s just say it’s a bit riskier.. However, this line could represent a new lease on life.

After some inconsistent seasons, he could benefit from Demidov’s unpredictable and creative play to once again become the offensive threat that used to make NHL goalies tremble.

As for Demidov, he wasted no time impressing.

The Hockey News pointed out that he was among the first on the ice with Lane Hutson, a sign of his determination.

And the testimonials keep piling up. Zack Bolduc said:

“He is the most talented player I’ve ever played with he literally does whatever he wants with the puck.”

I truly believe this line could become the Canadiens’ engine this season and provide fans with the spark they’ve been waiting for for a long time.