Major trade between the Canadiens and Blackhawks: It fell through for Demidov
When we say that the Canadiens were lucky in selecting Ivan Demidov at the last draft, it's quite an understatement. They were very fortunate.
Indeed, there were numerous offers for the Blue Jackets' 4th overall pick, and if it weren't for their love for Cayden Lindstrom, they probably would have traded it.
According to what Pierre LeBrun mentioned after the draft, the Blackhawks offered their unprotected first-round pick for next year, among other assets, in exchange for the fourth overall pick.
- Pierre LeBrun
The Blackhawks are highly likely to finish at the bottom of the standings again this year and aim for the first overall pick in 2025. So, it was a very good offer, but the Jackets preferred Lindstrom.
We have just learned that the Canadiens received the same offer for the 5th overall pick, as Demidov was still available. Kent Hughes therefore refused a potential first overall pick next year for Ivan Demidov.
It must have been a very difficult offer to refuse, and it clearly shows how special and talented the new Habs player is.
If Kent Hughes had received a similar offer for his 5th pick last year, when he intended to select David Reinbacher, I'm not sure he would have turned it down.
In any case, we are very excited to see Demidov in action this season in the KHL and next year with the Canadiens. This young player is a prodigy and has all the tools to become a star in the NHL, in addition to having a lot of charisma.
| POLL | ||
Would you have accepted to trade Ivan Demidov for the potential first overall pick in 2025? | ||
| Yes | 66 | 17.9 % |
| No | 302 | 82.1 % |
| List of polls | ||
