Montreal Canadiens fans are anxiously anticipating the potential signing of Ivan Demidov, who is in the final year of his contract with SKA, ending May 31. Complicating matters is the lack of a transfer agreement between the NHL and KHL due to the Ukraine conflict, hindering negotiations. While SKA may try to extend Demidov’s contract or send him back to junior, other prospects like Danila Yurov and Daniil But are also nearing contract conclusions, keeping fans hopeful amid uncertainty.
The Wait for Ivan Demidov: Canadiens Fans Hold Their Breath
As NCAA players swiftly ink deals with their NHL teams following their postseason exits, the Montreal Canadiens face a much longer wait to secure Ivan Demidov after his recent elimination. Fans hoping to see Demidov as a potential playoff savior for the Canadiens may need to temper their expectations. The promising forward is currently in the final year of his contract with SKA, which concludes on May 31.
Challenges Arising from the NHL-KHL Rift
One major hurdle complicating the situation is the absence of a transfer agreement between the NHL and KHL, a consequence of the NHL’s response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This severance has resulted in a complete breakdown of communication between the two leagues, making it virtually impossible to resolve contractual disputes.
The confusion surrounding this issue has been echoed by a Russian player agent, who spoke anonymously due to the sensitive nature of his clients’ situations. “It’s chaos,” he remarked, highlighting the difficulties faced by all parties involved in negotiations.
For the Canadiens, simply buying out the final months of Demidov’s contract isn’t an option. The only avenue available is to negotiate a release from SKA in good faith, but this path appears fraught with challenges. The agent noted, “In the KHL, decisions are made on a case-by-case basis. Clubs have significant leverage, and the relationship between the player and the club can greatly impact negotiations.” Additionally, Demidov’s eligibility for the MHL adds another layer of complexity to this situation.
Speculation has arisen that SKA might opt to send Demidov back to their junior affiliate in the MHL to finish the season. Furthermore, SKA is reportedly making efforts to convince him to extend his contract, an offer he has consistently declined. This ongoing situation has resulted in inconsistent playing time for Demidov, despite him being the team’s leading scorer and breaking records previously held by Kirill Kaprizov.
As the situation unfolds, Canadiens fans may face mounting frustration, particularly as SKA appears to be prioritizing contract negotiations for their captain, Alexander Nikishin, allowing him to transition to the NHL with the Carolina Hurricanes. Nikishin’s recent engagement of Quartexx Management, the former agency of Kent Hughes, hints at his desire to make this leap.
Other Prospects on the Move
Several other prospects are also approaching the end of their contracts on May 31:
- Danila Yurov
First-round pick of the Minnesota Wild in 2022, 24th overall
Statistics this season: 46 games, 13 goals, 12 assists, 25 points
Yurov has extended his KHL stay and appears poised to join Kirill Kaprizov in the NHL next season following a successful development camp experience. - Daniil But
First-round pick of the Arizona Coyotes in 2023, 12th overall
Statistics this season: 54 games, 9 goals, 19 assists, 28 points
This towering forward has yet to extend his contract with Lokomotiv Yaroslavl and seems eager to make a move to the Utah hockey club. - Dmitri Simashev
First-round pick of the Arizona Coyotes in 2023, 6th overall
Statistics this season: 56 games, 1 goal, 5 assists, 6 points
Simashev is also likely to transition to North America, as he is viewed as a key piece for the Coyotes’ long-term defensive strategy.
As these negotiations unfold, the Canadiens and their fans are left eagerly awaiting news on Demidov and other prospects, hoping for a positive outcome in the midst of the current chaos.