Everything you need to know about Ivan Demidov

Ivan Demidov is one of the most hyped-up young players to enter the NHL in recent years. He is expected to become a huge star and franchise player for the Montreal Canadiens. But who is he, really? Here’s everything you need to know about Ivan Demidov.

Ivan Demidov early life

Ivan Demidov was born on December 19, 2005. He grew up in Sergiyev, Russia, about two hours from Moscow. He lived with his parents and his older brother, Semyon, who was born in 2002. Semyon currently plays for SKA-Neva St. Petersburg in the VHL.

Ivan Demidov Russia

At just 15 years old, Ivan started gaining attention from hockey fans and experts after scoring nine points in just six games in the Russia Region U18 league. The following season, he recorded 26 points in 11 games in the Russia U17 league, solidifying his status as a rising star.

SKA St. Petersburg and the MHL Breakout

In the 2022–2023 season, Demidov made his KHL debut. He played two games for SKA St. Petersburg without scoring any points. However, he shined in the MHL, racking up 62 points in just 41 games. During the 2023–2024 season, he played four KHL games and absolutely dominated the MHL with 60 points in 30 games. This outstanding performance led to him being selected fifth overall by the Montreal Canadiens in the 2024 NHL Draft. The pick was announced by none other than legendary singer Céline Dion.
The following season, he exceeded the hype. In his 2024–2025 KHL campaign, Demidov played 65 games, tallying 19 goals and 30 assists for a total of 49 points. Making him the highest-scoring junior in KHL history.

Ivan Demidov Montreal Canadiens

On April 8, 2025, Ivan Demidov left the KHL and signed a three-year entry-level contract worth $940,833 per year with the Montreal Canadiens. Just six days later, on April 14, he made his much-anticipated NHL debut against the Chicago Blackhawks—and he made an immediate impact. In his very first NHL period, Demidov scored a goal and an assist in a 4–3 shootout loss.

Ivan Demidov brother

Ivan’s older brother, Semyon Demidov, is also a professional hockey player. Born on September 3, 2002, Semyon currently plays in the VHL for SKA-Neva St. Petersburg. He had an impressive season, scoring 19 goals and adding 27 assists in 42 games. Semyon has not been drafted by an NHL team.