The Scouting Report:
Ivan Demidov of Sergiyev Posad, Russia is perhaps one of the most intriguing players of the 2024 NHL Draft. Demidov was born on December 10th, 2005, and clocks in at 5’11” with a lighter weight of 168 lbs. Demidov is viewed by most as a top-three prospect in this year’s draft, with a strong likelihood of being selected second overall.
Demidov spent his draft year in the MHL playing with SKA-1946 St. Petersburg, scoring 23 goals and 60 points in 30 games. Demidov then went on to continue his success in the playoffs with 11 goals and 28 points in 17 games.
There has been a tendency for Russian players to fall in the draft, with the most notable being Matvei Michkov, but it doesn’t look like Demidov will have to wait long before having his name called, as many teams seem to be interested in adding Demidov to their mix.
Ranked #2 by Inside The Rink
Ranked #2 by TSN/Craig Button
Ranked #2 by Daily Faceoff
Ranked #2 by Dobber Prospects
I’ve highlighted some of Ivan Demidov’s attributes below so let’s take a deeper dive into what sets Demidov apart from much of the 2024 NHL Draft class.
Diving Deeper:
Playmaking
Ivan Demidov is an offensive threat, and his playmaking abilities have grown quite a bit this past season. While his shot is lethal, his playmaking game took a major jump as he found creative ways to feed his teammates high-danger chances. Demidov does all of this while still making quick decisions. He rarely finds himself holding onto the puck for too long, as even when he holds the puck longer than is expected the puck ends up on the stick of his teammate and often then into the back of the net.
“His elite element is clearly what he projects to bring offensively at the NHL level. He has top-line upside, plays with pace, possesses an outstanding release, and battles to make plays coming off the wall.”
Jason Bukala – Sportsnet – February 27th
Hockey IQ
To tie in with his playmaking ability, the hockey IQ of Demidov is elite. He sees the ice in a unique way that allows him to keep his opponents guessing and that has led to a lot of his success at the MHL level. Demidov seems to always know where his teammates are and finds them right on the tape for quick chances. Demidov’s hockey IQ enables him to make quick smart decisions both on and off the puck.
“He drives offense in every sense of the word and projects as a top-line winger in the NHL. A combination of elite puck skill, brilliant hockey mind and a lethal release, Demidov has all the makings of star.”
Rachel Doerrie – ESPN – April 2nd
Puck Handling
Part of what has led to Demidov’s offensive success is how skilled he is with his stick on the puck. He can navigate effectively in tight spaces and evade stick ties from the defenders he’s approaching. Demidov’s puck skills are easily noticeable and should translate well to the NHL level.
On-Ice Abilities:
Ivan Demidov doesn’t have major concerns in his game because of how well he performs offensively, but one thing he will look to do is add size. Demidov is 5’11” and only at 180 lbs. Adding some weight to his game would help him to hold his ground better, especially at an NHL level.
Ivan Demidov has many tools that make him effective offensively, but another key is his shot. Demidov’s shot is impressive and paired with his playmaking abilities, Demidov is able to often catch the other team off guard. Some of the most dangerous players in hockey are able to both wire shots right past the goalie and set up their teammates in high-danger areas. Demidov does both of these things quite well and will look to bring that with him as he competes at higher levels.
Prospect Potential:
Ivan Demidov has the offensive talents and hockey IQ that are needed to be effective in the NHL and even to be a star. Demidov is poised to be a top-line forward in the NHL with star potential. Demidov will look to continue to develop his defensive game as often with offensive players that is what can be left behind.
Best Potential Fit:
Chicago Blackhawks: The Blackhawks pick second overall in this year’s draft, with Demidov being projected as second overall by many outlets. Demidov would bring a boost to the Blackhawks’ offense alongside Bedard. The Blackhawks will look to start getting more competitive each year and Demidov would surely help with that.
Columbus Blue Jackets: If Demidov is still available at fourth overall, it should be a no-brainer for Don Waddell to select the Russian forward. Demidov would bring the Blue Jackets’ offense to the next level as the team tries to shift out of their brief rebuild.
Montreal Canadiens: While the chance of Demidov being available at fifth overall is quite low, the fit with the Canadiens is evident. The Canadiens have many defensive prospects and ideally would draft a high-end forward to join their young core and Demidov’s playmaking skills could fit really nicely with the scoring on the Canadiens.
Final Thoughts:
Ivan Demidov has a lot of the tools that make a star in the NHL and he is one of the most intriguing players projected to be drafted this year. Note that Demidov is contracted until the end of the 2024/2025 season, so his NHL debut wouldn’t likely be until the following season. Whichever team drafts Demidov will have a creative and offensive talent for years to come.
Stats via Elite Prospects
Hold your horses fellas you forgot to filter in the Flyers factor. Our GM is capable of pulling off anything. Including a trade up to get Demidov. We have his buddy Michkov remember? And enough assets to get a deal done. If your not considering Danny B wouldn’t want to put those two together then you’re crazy. Let’s just wait to see what draft day brings then we’ll talk. Go Flyers!!!!