Montreal is a city that breathes hockey. It`s a truth as old as the game itself, and one that becomes particularly evident when a flicker of hope ignites the fanbase. Even in mid-September, when the leaves are just beginning to turn and the regular season is still a mere whisper on the horizon, the Bell Centre transforms. This past Saturday, it wasn`t for a playoff battle or a rivalry clash. It was for a rookie game – an exhibition, a mere scouting opportunity. Yet, for thousands, it felt nothing short of a coronation.
The Buzz Before the Puck Drop
The murmurs started days before, escalating into a quiet roar. “Is Demidov playing?” the calls came, echoing through living rooms and workplaces across the province. For those not perpetually glued to prospect updates, the question was understandable. But for the devoted faithful, the answer was a foregone conclusion, a pilgrimage to witness the potential dawn of a new era. The arena, nearly packed to the rafters, was testament to this unique Montreal phenomenon: the insatiable hunger for a new star, a new savior in the storied blue, white, and red. The sheer volume of inquiries about a rookie game participant, as recounted by one observer, perhaps illustrates that not everyone is as immersed in September hockey as they are in October. But those who were, certainly made their presence felt.
A Masterclass Unfolds
From the moment Ivan Demidov, the fifth-overall pick from the 2024 NHL Draft, touched the puck, the atmosphere shifted. It wasn`t just anticipation; it was an almost tangible energy, a collective leaning forward in seats that quickly became irrelevant. Each touch, each deceptive maneuver, each precise pass was met with a chorus of cheers that grew steadily louder. He didn`t just play; he orchestrated. Demidov set up linemates Florian Xhekaj and Oliver Kapanen with the kind of vision usually reserved for seasoned veterans, resulting in two early goals. Then, as if to underscore his arrival, he embarked on a highlight-reel solo effort, a breathtaking breakaway that culminated in a late equalizer. The Bell Centre erupted, chanting his name in a frenzy that belied the exhibition nature of the contest.
“The crowd’s insane when (Demidov) has the puck,” noted teammate Florian Xhekaj, articulating the shared sentiment of every player on the ice. This phenomenon is indeed special, a testament to Demidov`s immediate, almost hypnotic, impact on the Montreal audience.
Demidov, a 19-year-old Russian, seemed accustomed to the fervent adoration. When asked if he was getting used to it, his laconic response of “We`ll see” carried a certain understated confidence, suggesting he knows this is merely the beginning of his journey towards what many already project as NHL superstardom.
The Coach`s Subtle Nod
Even the seasoned eye of Laval Rocket head coach Pascal Vincent, who was managing the Canadiens` prospects bench, couldn`t help but be impressed. “Every time you send (Demidov) on the ice, you get the impression something’s going to happen. And something does happen, and we get a chance to score,” Vincent observed, acknowledging the deliberate artistry behind Demidov`s plays. His subsequent comment, a subtle admission that the “privilege wouldn’t be his beyond this weekend,” spoke volumes. It was a de facto pronouncement: this talent is likely too great for the minor leagues; the NHL stage beckons, and soon.
Beyond Demidov: A Glimpse into the Future
While Demidov was undoubtedly the star of the show, the rookie game also offered encouraging signs from other promising prospects, hinting at a potentially bright future for the Canadiens organization:
- Florian Xhekaj: His off-season dedication was evident. Reportedly gaining 15 pounds, his increased physical presence didn`t hinder his skill or hockey sense. He proved he could play a robust game while still contributing offensively, scoring a goal and an assist alongside Demidov.
- Jacob Fowler: The reigning NCAA goaltender of the year, a 2023 69th-overall pick, made a perfect Bell Centre debut, stopping all 11 shots he faced in his half-game appearance. His calm, composed presence in the net was a notable positive.
- David Reinbacher: The 2023 fifth-overall pick, despite some understandable rust from a serious knee injury, showcased his inherent poise, fluid skating, and astute hockey sense. One scout noted his “movement” and how he “always seems to know what he’s going to do in advance,” suggesting immense potential once fully up to speed.
- Owen Beck: A versatile and cerebral player, Beck (33rd overall, 2022) demonstrated his ability to contribute across all facets of the game—skating, physicality, power play, penalty kill, and adaptability between wing and center. Coach Vincent`s assessment highlighted his “interesting tools” and “cerebral” approach.
The Weight of the C, and the Privilege of the Jersey
The true essence of playing for the Canadiens, even in a rookie showcase, was beautifully encapsulated by Pascal Vincent`s anecdote about Luke Tuch, who wore the captain`s `C`. Tuch`s emotional reaction underlined the profound honor of representing the Habs. For many, this might be their solitary moment in an NHL jersey, a cherished story to tell generations. For Demidov, however, this Saturday night was less a culmination and more a prologue. The curtain has just risen on what promises to be an enthralling saga.
The immediate takeaway is clear: the Montreal Canadiens organization has reason to be profoundly optimistic. In Ivan Demidov, they may have found not just a player, but a phenomenon – one who, with every flick of the wrist and every chant of his name, is already carving out his legacy in the heart of hockey country. The sprint towards superstardom, as the early reports suggest, is well and truly underway, and the Bell Centre is already buzzing with anticipation for the next act.
