There’s a new buzz swirling around the Montreal Canadiens’ training camp, and it’s not just about the arrival of Ivan Demidov.

In a surprising twist, head coach Martin St-Louis has made a bold change to the team’s line combinations—one that’s already raising eyebrows among fans and analysts alike.

After days of anticipation, the much-discussed trio of Demidov, Patrik Laine, and Kirby Dach has been split up, leaving many to wonder what’s really happening behind the scenes.

The move comes just as the Canadiens are searching for the perfect offensive balance, and speculation is running wild about what this means for Demidov’s development and the team’s overall strategy.

Is this a calculated risk to unlock new chemistry, or are there deeper concerns about the fit between these star forwards? With Georges Laraque’s recent warning still echoing in the background and the preseason winding down, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

As Demidov finds himself skating alongside new faces, the question remains: could this unexpected shuffle be the key to unleashing his full potential—or is it a sign of bigger changes to come? The answers lie just beneath the surface, waiting to be discovered.

Canadiens forward Ivan Demidov

Photo credit: NHL

The Montreal Canadiens shook up their training plans, and the new line combinations are already changing things, with Ivan Demidov now skating with new linemates.

After several days of seeing Ivan Demidov alongside Patrik Laine and Kirby Dach, that combination is now over-at least in practice.

Former NHL enforcer Georges Laraque even warned the organization against the idea of placing Demidov on a line with Patrik Laine and Kirby Dach.

Martin St-Louis is clearly looking for better offensive balance and trying to create new chemistry before the season begins.

It’s a decision that draws attention, as it directly involves two of the biggest names in the offense.

According to Anthony Martineau from TVA Sports, here’s the new setup:

Patrik Laine – Kirby Dach – Zachary Bolduc
Alex Newhook – Kasperi Kapanen – Ivan Demidov

 

Ivan Demidov Repositioned With Newhook and Kapanen to Build Chemistry

As Nicolas Cloutier noted, many were wondering if Patrik Laine would be replaced by the young Bolduc on the second line.

Ultimately, it’s Dach who is now skating with Bolduc and Laine.

Meanwhile, the Canadiens are trying to build a connection between Demidov and Kapanen.

Cloutier pointed out that these two players had worked well together in the very first preseason game.

“We’re trying to create chemistry between Kapanen and Demidov, who played well together in the first preseason game.” – Nicolas Cloutier

For my part, I think separating Demidov from Laine is a good decision.

Putting the young Russian with more mobile wingers and a center who can play quickly can help him adapt to the pace of the NHL.