Photo credit: NHL

It was finally tonight that young Montreal Canadiens forward Ivan Demidov played his long-awaited first NHL game.

And to say the least, he absolutely did not disappoint.

To mark his debut in the National Hockey League, Demidov’s teammates invited him to do the traditional “rookie lap” – of course, without a helmet – and that little ritual immediately comes with a consequence.

It’s ridiculous, but Ivan Demidov has already been hit with a sanction from the NHL.

Ivan Demidov Targeted by NHL Sanction: A Fine Will Be Imposed on the Young Canadiens Forward

I’d imagine the fine will be covered by the Canadiens organization, but still, it’s a good opportunity to point out just how silly this all is.

It’s not exactly a warm or welcoming way to greet a rookie entering the NHL, especially when that rookie immediately puts his helmet back on after the lap.

Demidov simply did his lap and then promptly put his helmet back on.

So, don’t be surprised if the league announces a fine for Ivan Demidov tomorrow.

That’ll be the only reason why.

It’s always a great moment and always gets a laugh from the regular players, but it’s also technically forbidden by the NHL.

“For the past few seasons, all new NHL players have been required to wear their helmet at all times during warmups.

Violators are fined $2,500 by the commissioner, and that’s exactly what’s in store for young Demidov.”

Let’s hope there can soon be a small exception to this rule – specifically for rookies playing their very first NHL game.