Ivan Demidov set for Calder Trophy run as Montreal Canadiens chase back-to-back wins

Lane Hutson made history this year by becoming the first Montreal Canadiens player since 1972 to win the Calder Trophy. But the spotlight is already shifting to the next big name: Ivan Demidov.

After a promising start in the NHL, Demidov is entering the 2024–25 season with high expectations and many believe he could bring the Calder home again.

Montreal eyes second straight Calder Trophy with Demidov in focus

For the first time in over five decades, a Montreal Canadiens rookie claimed the NHL’s top rookie honour. Lane Hutson’s Calder Trophy win in 2024 not only marked a personal milestone but also ended a 52-year drought for the franchise. Now, the attention has quickly shifted to another young name making waves — Ivan Demidov.The 18-year-old Russian forward arrived in Montreal after a strong campaign in the KHL and didn’t take long to draw attention. Despite limited NHL minutes toward the end of last season, Demidov showed flashes of skill that highlighted why he was one of the most talked-about international prospects.

His early form has already sparked conversations among fans and analysts alike. Can the Canadiens do what no NHL team has done in more than 50 years — produce back-to-back Calder winners?The last to manage that feat was the Boston Bruins, with Bobby Orr in 1967 followed by Derek Sanderson in 1968.

Since then, the NHL has grown in size and competition, making consecutive wins for teammates an increasingly rare achievement. However, Montreal’s shift toward a youth-first approach could create the right conditions for it to happen again.The Canadiens have been steadily building a core around young talent. With names like Cole Caufield, Nick Suzuki, Kaiden Guhle, and now Hutson already in place, Demidov steps into a system that not only supports but accelerates player development.

He’s expected to see regular minutes and play a more involved role from the outset.The 2025 Calder Trophy race is expected to be competitive, with several top rookies across the league set to make their mark. But Demidov holds a few key advantages—brief but valuable NHL experience, a strong support system, and a style of play that fits modern league demands.Also Read: Justin Carbonneau faces crucial decision ahead of NHL Draft, balancing NCAA opportunities and Junior Hockey tiesIf his transition continues smoothly and he delivers consistently, Ivan Demidov may well become the second Canadiens rookie in as many years to be crowned the NHL’s best.