Ivan Demidov’s arrival in Montreal has sent shockwaves through the NHL, igniting excitement among Canadiens fans and leaving hockey insiders abuzz with speculation. Bursting onto the scene with flashes of brilliance late in the season and now making his mark in the playoffs, Demidov’s extraordinary skill set has quickly established him as one of the most electrifying young talents in the league.

His dazzling performances have not only energized the fanbase but also sparked a wave of reflection—and regret—throughout NHL front offices, particularly among the teams that passed on him in the 2024 Draft. As stories emerge from scouts and analysts, it’s becoming clear that Demidov may have been one of the most misjudged prospects in recent memory, with some insiders now boldly declaring he should have been the first overall pick.

The Canadiens’ good fortune in landing him fifth overall is now seen as a potential franchise-altering moment, and the hockey world is watching closely as Demidov continues to rise. In the wake of his breakout, the decisions made by rival teams are being scrutinized, and the narrative around the draft is shifting dramatically—all thanks to Montreal’s newest star.

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

We can say that Ivan Demidov made quite the entrance with the Montreal Canadiens and in the National Hockey League.

We saw glimpses of him at the end of the season, and we’ll be seeing more in the playoffs.

His exceptional talent has already thrilled Canadiens fans, and it’s fair to say the organization has a true gem on its hands, one who could become the team’s main attraction in the years to come.

That said, Kent Hughes was fortunate to draft Ivan Demidov fifth overall in the 2024 NHL Draft.

Scoop: Ivan Demidov was misjudged, and at least three teams made a big mistake by letting him slide to the Canadiens, according to scouts who spoke with Martin Leclerc

During his segment on BPM Sports, Martin Leclerc revealed that Ivan Demidov should have been the first overall pick in the 2024 class.

Wow.

“If the territory over there had been open to scouts as usual and if everyone had equal access to Demidov’s games last season, he probably would have been the first player selected in the draft.”

– Martin Leclerc

Martin Leclerc’s Segment [BPM Sports]

“Canadiens scouts told Martin Leclerc that under normal circumstances, Ivan Demidov likely would have been selected first overall in the last draft. Now we understand why!”

– BPM Sports

The veteran Radio-Canada journalist also mentioned that it’s very likely Canadiens scouts didn’t have all the information, and he wonders if that’s the reason Demidov may not have been their top choice either.

In the end, the San Jose Sharks, who held the first overall pick last year, chose Macklin Celebrini.

Celebrini had a sensational rookie season and is a Calder Trophy contender alongside Lane Hutson.

But credit must also go to the Chicago Blackhawks, Anaheim Ducks, and especially the Columbus Blue Jackets for passing on the young forward wearing No. 93, who might just become the best Canadiens forward in a long, long time.