Canadiens’ Ivan Demidov Earns NHL December Rookie of the Month Honors
Ivan Demidov, the youngest player for the Montreal Canadiens, has been awarded the NHL Rookie of the Month for December. This recognition was confirmed by the league last Thursday.
Demidov’s Impressive Performance
At just 20 years old, Demidov showcased exceptional talent during December, leading all NHL rookies with a total of 14 points. His record includes:
- 4 goals
- 10 assists
He also topped the rookie charts in assists and even-strength points, further solidifying his status as a key player for Montreal.
Historic Context
In the last century, only three Canadiens rookies have surpassed Demidov’s monthly point total. They are:
- Michael Ryder – 16 points (January 2004)
- Cole Caufield – 15 points (March 2022)
- Lane Hutson – 15 points (March 2025)
Hutson, who won the Calder Trophy for the NHL’s top rookie last season, was also a recipient of the Rookie of the Month award twice during that year.
Season Stats
Demidov was selected fifth overall in the 2024 NHL Draft. Currently, he leads all rookies this season with a total of 33 points, including:
- 10 goals
- 23 assists
This accomplishment comes from his participation in 39 games, highlighting his significant contribution to the team’s success.
Conclusion
With such remarkable achievements at a young age, Ivan Demidov is poised to become a standout player in the NHL. His performance not only reflects his skills but also adds to the Canadiens’ impressive record as one of the top teams in the league.
