Striking statement from Bob Hartley about Ivan Demidov
When Bob Hartley gives his opinion, he doesn't go unnoticed, and he recently took the opportunity to talk about Ivan Demidov, the Canadiens' 5th overall pick.
Indeed, whether his opinion is positive or negative, he doesn't hesitate to share it, even when it concerns the Canadiens. This time, he made a striking statement.
According to the former coach, Ivan Demidov could have been the first overall pick if he had had the same exposure as Macklin Celebrini.
Bob Hartley really likes what he sees and hears about the Canadiens' prospect, BUT...
However, there is some concern for him, which is the charm offensive his KHL team will launch to keep him. It should be noted that Bob Hartley knows the KHL very well, having been a head coach there and winning a championship.
I don't tend to believe that he would turn his back on the Canadiens, but according to the coach, the pressure could be very strong, especially with Demidov's talent.
The KHL was designed to compete with the NHL, so they really don't like losing their top players to North America. They are willing to go far in their offers to keep them.
So, we will see in the coming months what decision the Canadiens' prospect will make, but one thing is certain: according to Bob Hartley, Ivan Demidov has the talent to be the first overall pick in the latest NHL draft.
| POLL | ||
In your opinion, should Ivan Demidov have been selected before Macklin Celebrini, as Bob Hartley mentions? | ||
| Yes | 135 | 67.5 % |
| No | 65 | 32.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
