Ivan Demidov's agent has strong words for the Montreal Canadiens
Photo credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
Ivan Demidov's agent is revealing new details behind the star winger's eight-year, $73.2 million extension with the Montreal Canadiens, and it turns out the term and cap number were driven largely by the player himself.
Agent Dan Milstein said Demidov pushed hard for a long-term commitment and wanted the negotiation wrapped up quickly, even if it meant sacrificing some short-term earning power.
If I had it my way, the deal probably would have looked a little different. Ivan basically said he wanted the eight-year deal. He wanted it done quickly and wanted to leave room financially for Montreal to get even better.
Demidov Wanted Term Over Top Dollar
According to Milstein, Demidov was clear about his priorities from the start of talks. Rather than chase a higher AAV, the 20 year old forward wanted security and a runway for general manager Kent Hughes to keep adding pieces around him.
His exact words were, 'We're in a great situation. I feel like we're going to be winning for many years.' He wanted to leave money on the table so they can sign other players.
The deal runs from 2027-28 through 2034-35 and carries a $9.15 million cap hit, a number many around the league view as team friendly given Demidov's rookie season output of 19 goals and 43 assists.
A Pattern in Montreal
Demidov's approach mirrors what Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield and Lane Hutson have already done in Montreal, each signing extensions that prioritized term and flexibility over maximizing individual value.
That culture appears to be taking hold with the next wave of Canadiens core players.
With Demidov locked up long term and cap space preserved, the Canadiens now have more room to pursue upgrades as the roster continues to take shape around their young core.
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