Ivan Demidov Receives High Praise from Nathan MacKinnon

UPDATE: NHL star Nathan MacKinnon has just praised young sensation Ivan Demidov, marking a significant moment in the Montreal Canadiens’ season. As reported by TVA Sports on November 29, 2025, MacKinnon, the league’s current top scorer, expressed admiration for Demidov’s remarkable talent following a stunning goal during a recent game.

“I saw his goal on Wednesday night. What a shot! He’s having quite a season and I think he’ll become a really special player,” MacKinnon stated, highlighting the raw potential of the rookie forward. This endorsement from one of the NHL’s elite players is expected to boost Demidov’s confidence as he navigates his inaugural full season in the league.

As the Canadiens look to solidify their standings, Demidov’s performance is becoming integral to their success. Currently, he has accumulated an impressive 20 points in his first 25 NHL games, surpassing notable players like Mitch Marner and Auston Matthews, who both recorded 19 points during their initial 25 games.

However, experts are urging Demidov to shoot more frequently. Anthony Martineau, a sports analyst, suggests that Demidov should adopt a more aggressive approach similar to that of teammate Lane Hutson, who has been actively shooting more at the net. “He’s a little too willing to look for the perfect play when that perfect play is often just a shot away,” Martineau noted, emphasizing the need for Demidov to capitalize on his scoring opportunities.

In terms of ice time, Demidov is currently averaging 14:22 minutes per game, a notable difference compared to Matthews’ 17:17 minutes and Marner’s 17:06 minutes. This limited playtime may be a strategy from the coaching staff to manage the rookie’s development, ensuring he acclimates to the rigors of the NHL season without overexertion.

As the Canadiens strive for a playoff spot, every point counts, making Demidov’s growth crucial for the team’s aspirations. His trajectory suggests a promising future in the league, with fans and analysts eagerly watching how he will adapt and respond to the increasing expectations.

NEXT: Expect more updates as Demidov continues to develop his game and receive feedback from established stars like MacKinnon. Canadiens fans are hopeful that his evolving skills will contribute significantly to the team’s success this season.

In related news, Canadiens captain Nick Suzuki is on track to achieve a 96-point season, further enhancing the excitement surrounding the team as they aim to make a strong playoff push.