Ivan Demidov Boosts Montreal Canadiens’ NHL Playoffs Odds

Ivan Demidov is on the way and he can’t get into a Montreal Canadiens jersey soon enough for Habs fans.

The 19-year-old prospect finished his rookie season in the KHL earlier this week and was released from SKA Saint Petersburg, which paved the way for Demidov to sign his entry-level contract with the Canadiens. Demidov led his team with 49 points in the KHL regular season and then added five more in six playoff games. Those 49 points were more than any under-20 player in the KHL this season and also broke Kirill Kaprizov’s record of 42 points as a 19-year-old.

Demidov was drafted fifth overall by the Canadiens in last year’s draft and is ranked as one of the best (if not the best) players outside of the NHL.

NHL Stanley Cup Odds

So now it’s not a question of if he’ll be a part of Montreal’s playoff push, but when. The Canadiens currently hold a six-point lead on the second wild card spot in the Eastern Conference and show no signs of slowing down with six consecutive wins heading into Friday’s date with the Ottawa Senators.

Early reports indicate Demidov may be ready to make his NHL debut on Monday against the Chicago Blackhawks, but wouldn’t it be something if he suited up for Montreal’s Saturday night tilt with the Toronto Maple Leafs?

Montreal is still a major underdog to win the Stanley Cup at +8000 on the NHL odds board, but keep an eye on that number if Demidov makes an impact quickly.