The Montreal Canadiens have made a major splash on the NHL's free agency day, announcing an eight-year contract extension for star winger Ivan Demidov. The deal, worth an reported $73 million with an annual cap hit of $9.125 million, will commence in the 2027-28 season, following the conclusion of his current entry-level contract. This long-term commitment underscores the Canadiens' belief in Demidov as a cornerstone player for the franchise.
Demidov, originally selected fifth overall in the 2024 NHL Entry Draft, has rapidly become a crucial offensive force for Montreal. In the recently concluded 2025-26 season, the 20-year-old Russian winger posted an impressive 62 points, including 19 goals and 43 assists, in 82 regular-season games. He was a finalist for the Calder Memorial Trophy as the league's top rookie, further cementing his status as one of the NHL's brightest young talents. His performance was instrumental in the Canadiens' deep playoff run, where he contributed nine points in 19 games.
The contract extension is seen as a strategic move by Canadiens General Manager Kent Hughes, who has been lauded for his success in drafting and developing young talent. This deal ensures that Demidov will remain a prominent figure in Montreal's lineup for years to come, as the team aims to build on its recent successes and contend for championships. The club is building an exciting young top-six forward group, and this deal further solidifies that foundation.
