Ivan Demidov: Rising Star in the Montreal Canadiens Roster
In the latest update of The Athletic’s top 100 NHL drafted prospects, published in February 2025, Ivan Demidov of the Montreal Canadiens has claimed the top spot. This is a significant leap from his third-place position in July 2024. The change is largely due to the graduation of two players ahead of him, San Jose Sharks’ Macklin Celebrini and Philadelphia Flyers’ Matvei Michkov, to the NHL. Once a player makes the NHL, they are no longer eligible for the list, which explains the reshuffling. Scott Wheeler, The Athletic’s analyst, describes Demidov as "the most purely skilled forward in the sport," predicting him to be a point-per-game, first-line, all-star level winger. This recognition underscores the immense potential and skill Demidov possesses, and it is a promising sign for the Canadiens’ future.
Montreal Canadiens’ Other Notable Prospects
The Montreal Canadiens have a strong presence in the top 100 list, with four more players joining Demidov. David Reinbacher, who was 38th in July, has moved up to 24th. Despite only playing a few minutes of preseason action before a knee injury sidelined him, Reinbacher’s rise is a testament to his talent and potential. Michael Hage, another promising young player, has climbed from 41st to 35th. His performance in the NCAA, where he recorded 30 points in 27 games, has been impressive, and while a bigger jump might have been expected, his current position is a solid reflection of his capabilities. Logan Mailloux, who was initially at 79th, has made a significant leap to 58th. Despite not making the Canadiens this season, his improvement is noteworthy. Finally, Joshua Roy, who was 68th in July, has slipped to 82nd. His demotion after training camp is reflected in this ranking, which remains a fair assessment of his current standing.
The Absence of Jacob Fowler
One name that stands out for its absence from the top 100 list is Jacob Fowler. However, this is not a cause for concern, as the list is specific to skaters. The top 20 goaltenders list, set to be released on Wednesday, is expected to feature Fowler. In July, he was ranked third among goaltenders. The competition for the top spots is fierce, with Jesper Wallstedt and Yaroslav Askarov still vying for positions. Neither has graduated to the NHL on a consistent basis, making the upcoming list highly anticipated. Fowler’s performance at Boston College has been commendable, and his inclusion in the goaltenders’ list is almost a certainty.
The Canadiens’ Future Outlook
The Canadiens are clearly building a strong foundation with their young prospects. The rise of players like Demidov, Reinbacher, Hage, Mailloux, and Roy, along with the anticipated success of goaltender Jacob Fowler, signals a promising future for the team. These young talents bring a mix of skill, resilience, and potential that can drive the Canadiens to new heights. The organization’s focus on developing these players is evident, and the results are starting to show. As these prospects continue to grow and develop, the Canadiens are well-positioned to become a formidable force in the NHL.
Staying Updated with Canadiens’ News
To stay informed about the latest Canadiens news, analysis, and breaking stories, there are several platforms to follow. Karine Hains, a prominent Canadiens reporter, shares updates on X (@KarineHains), Bluesky (@karinehains.bsky.social), and Threads (@karinehains). Bookmarking The Hockey News Canadiens’ page is another excellent way to keep up with all the news and happenings around the team. By staying connected through these channels, fans can ensure they never miss a crucial update or exciting development.
The Road Ahead for Montreal Canadiens
The excitement surrounding the Canadiens’ young prospects is palpable. Ivan Demidov’s ascent to the top prospect spot is just the beginning, and the team’s other young talents are poised to make their mark in the NHL. The combination of skill, potential, and the organization’s commitment to development positions the Canadiens well for the future. As these players continue to grow and contribute, the team’s journey to becoming a dominant force in the league is on the horizon. Fans and analysts alike are eagerly watching the Canadiens’ progress, and the future looks bright for this storied franchise.
