The Montreal Canadiens have been making headlines with their bold approach to the NHL Draft in recent seasons, particularly when it comes to selecting Russian prospects.

Under the leadership of Jeff Gorton and Kent Hughes, the team has shifted its strategy, focusing on a talent pool that many other organizations have overlooked or avoided.

While some fans and analysts have questioned this direction, the Canadiens’ front office appears to have uncovered a unique advantage that sets them apart from the competition.

With the expertise of key figures like Nick Bobrov, who has played a pivotal role in scouting and building relationships with Russian players, Montreal is positioning itself to benefit from a market inefficiency.

As the hockey world debates the risks and rewards of drafting Russian talent, the Canadiens are quietly assembling a roster with the potential to surprise many in the years ahead. This calculated approach could not only reshape the team’s future but also influence how other NHL clubs evaluate international prospects moving forward.

Photo credit: Dose

Since Jeff Gorton and Kent Hughes took over management of the Montreal Canadiens, the team has been drafting more and more Russian prospects. However, the reason behind this strategy offers a real advantage.

In recent years, Russian players have lost popularity with NHL teams.

Several factors have contributed to this shift over time.

When we think about Ivan Demidov being selected 5th overall, it’s fair to wonder how high he would’ve gone if he were North American.

However, a new advantage has been revealed that explains why teams like the Canadiens are increasingly drafting Russian players.

Here’s why it’s advantageous to draft Russian players

Several reasons explain the benefits of drafting Russian players

It’s known that Nick Bobrov plays a major role in scouting players like Ivan Demidov, Bogdan Konyushkov, Alexander Zharovsky, and Yevgeni Volokhin.

He visits Russian prospects and helps build strong ties with Russia.

The Canadiens have truly benefited since his hiring.

Recently, Ivan Demidov’s agent, Dan Milstein, explained why teams are increasingly drafting Russian players.

“I think the Habs scouting department has been following this line of logic since Bobrov came in. Between picking a CHL/USHL player or a Russian player of equal skill, I wouldn’t be surprised if teams start picking the Russian players because of the advantages explained here.”

– HFTV

Dan Milstein points out that a Russian player develops in an extremely competitive league-the KHL.

Additionally, the NHL team that drafts them retains their rights until the player turns 27.

He cites Kirill Kaprizov and Artemi Panarin as examples.

These players can remain tied to their NHL team without requiring a contract, which means they don’t take up one of the 50 contract slots.

Moreover, when they do eventually sign, it’s through an entry-level deal with a reduced salary-offering significant financial advantages.

In short, it wouldn’t be surprising to see more and more Russian players join the Montreal Canadiens in the coming years.