Kent Hughes: the two factors that contributed to bringing in Ivan Demidov now

Dose
Crédit:

It’s official: the Canadiens will play Ivan Demidov tonight. He will play with Joel Armia and Alex Newhook. Additionally, he will have ice time on the second powerplay unit.

And as you know, expectations are high right now for Demidov.

Russian Demidov will speak to the media after the game, but Kent Hughes, the GM of the Habs, took the time to speak to the media before tonight’s game. Here’s what that looks like.

First, we note that the GM mentions that he did not pay the SKA to get Demidov out of Russia (he is not allowed to do so), but that certain aspects have made it possible for him to have him this year instead of next year.

For example?

  • The SKA being eliminated more quickly than expected.
  • The Habs lining up to make the playoffs, which was unexpected.

These are elements (and there are probably others that he cannot or will not disclose) that have made it possible for Demidov to be here now and to help the Habs push for the playoffs.

Because yes, making the playoffs tonight is still the goal. Hughes says he doesn’t have specific expectations for the Russian player tonight, as expectations are more focused on the team and victory.

Among the important points to note, there is also the fact that Kent Hughes affirms that yes, he can see Demidov’s arrival as a “reward” for the guys in the locker room – like Patrik Laine.

Wow.

Demidov was expected, as players would sometimes go see him to ask if the Russian player would arrive. The guy will be very clearly well received in the Habs locker room.

And he will be placed alongside the captain in the locker room, precisely…

Finally, note that the GM is convinced that Demidov has the potential to be an impact player. It’s no surprise to see him say that, but it’s still worth noting.

Are you looking forward to tonight?

Overtime

– Beautiful comparison.

– Speaking of the wolf.

– Sick.