Montreal is buzzing with anticipation, and it’s all thanks to a few carefully chosen words from Canadiens captain Nick Suzuki. During a recent charity golf tournament, Suzuki didn’t just turn heads with his stylish arrival—he also dropped a subtle hint that could have major implications for the team’s lineup this season.

In a summer interview, Suzuki spoke glowingly about Ivan Demidov, the young Russian forward who has already impressed everyone with his skills and energy.

But what exactly did Suzuki mean when he said he was “looking forward to playing with him”? Was this just a general compliment, or was the captain sending a message to coach Martin St-Louis about his preferred linemate for the upcoming campaign?

The ambiguity of Suzuki’s statement has set off a wave of speculation among fans and analysts alike. Could we be witnessing the birth of a dynamic new duo on the Canadiens’ top line?

Or is this simply the excitement of a leader eager to welcome new talent? As training camp approaches and lineup decisions loom, Suzuki’s words have left everyone guessing—and hungry for more details about the potential chemistry between these two stars. What happens next could change the course of Montreal’s season.

Apr 16, 2025; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens center Nick Suzuki (14) looks on against the Carolina Hurricanes in the first period at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

The captain of the Montreal Canadiens Nick Suzuki made an interesting statement yesterday in an interview.

Suzuki, who was at the Club de golf Saint-Raphael for a tournament and for a good cause, indeed took the opportunity to give a few summer interviews.

He also arrived in style!

And he spoke a few words in French, which is always very appreciated.

Did Nick Suzuki just ask Martin St-Louis to play with Ivan Demidov?

As part of one of these interviews, he stated the following.

Habs captain Nick Suzuki today on Ivan Demidov:

“I’m looking forward to (playing with him). He’s looked really good in the summer & he’ll be a nice addition to help us get back to the playoffs.”

By “play with him,” was Suzuki speaking about playing with him in general, or playing with him on the same line? Or on the same power play?

It’ll be up to Martin to decide, but we’re excited.

That leaves room for interpretation, but it could really be interesting as a combination.

I think Suzuki would not dislike at all being placed on the same line as the young Russian forward, because playing with Demidov in general is already happening for him.. But I’m also convinced Suzuki will be happy to play with any winger on the Habs.

Everyone seems to take for granted that Demidov will be on the second line, with Kirby Dach?, but he could also be sent to the first line, especially if Martin St-Louis wants to run a few tests during camp.

I wouldn’t dislike seeing that at all, personally..