Canadiens secure key player
The Montreal Canadiens have signed forward Ivan Demidov to an eight-year contract extension worth US$73.2 million. This agreement, which begins in the 2027-28 season, secures a significant member of their young core through the 2034-35 season. Demidov, who was selected fifth overall in the 2024 NHL draft, led all NHL rookies with 62 points last season, consisting of 19 goals and 43 assists. He also contributed nine points in 19 playoff games during Montreal’s run to the Eastern Conference final.
General Manager Kent Hughes highlighted Demidov’s commitment to the team’s salary structure, noting that Demidov, like other core players, is a team player who prioritizes being part of a collective effort. Demidov’s contract includes $58 million in signing bonuses, with $23 million secured within the first two years of the deal. The 20-year-old also received trade protection as part of the agreement.
Demidov’s perspective on the extension
Demidov expressed that while money is important, hockey remains his primary focus. He stated, “Money never going to be over hockey in my life.” His dedication is evident through his actions, including early morning ice sessions. This commitment, combined with his talent, is considered invaluable to the Canadiens.
Hughes emphasized his goal to reward the team’s core players by giving them the best chance to win. He indicated that any significant future trades would involve players who can complement the current roster for an extended period, rather than older players. Hughes has been actively pursuing trades for impact players, seeking patience and trust from fans as he continues to build the team.
Demidov cited the team’s strong core, similar age group, and shared desire to win the Stanley Cup as key motivators for signing the long-term extension. He joins other core members like Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, Juraj Slafkovsky, and Lane Hutson, who are also signed with the Canadiens through at least 2030.
Other free agency and trade market activity
In other league news, the Winnipeg Jets signed former Edmonton Oilers goalie Stuart Skinner to a two-year, $7.5-million contract. Skinner had previously reached the Stanley Cup final with the Oilers in 2024 and 2025 before being traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins. He posted a .888 save percentage and a 2.92 goals-against average in 50 games last season, split between the two teams.
The Vancouver Canucks have brought back defenceman Luke Schenn for his third stint with the team, signing him to a one-year, $2.25-million deal. Schenn, 36, spent last season with Buffalo and Winnipeg. Meanwhile, the Toronto Maple Leafs traded pending restricted free agent Nick Robertson to the Penguins in exchange for a fourth-round draft pick in 2028. Robertson, 24, recorded career-highs of 16 goals and 32 points in 78 games last season.
The Ottawa Senators have also been active, signing goalie Samuel Ersson to a two-year, $4.4-million deal and extending Nick Cousins on a two-year contract worth $3.175 million. Ersson, 26, was acquired from the Maple Leafs for a 2027 fifth-round pick. Cousins, 32, registered nine goals and 23 points in 81 games for the Senators last season, his second with the team.
The free agency period opened on July 1, allowing unrestricted free agents to negotiate and sign with any team, while restricted free agents can engage in offer sheet processes.
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Source: sportsnet.ca
