Ivan Demidov to directly replace Patrik Laine in the lineup? Bob Hartley weighs in on the situation
Since Patrik Laine's injury, many analysts and fans are questioning who might replace him alongside Kirby Dach.
The names Joshua Roy, Alex Barré-Boulet, Josh Anderson, Joel Armia, and Oliver Kapanen have been mentioned, but let's admit it: the most attractive solution clearly lies in the KHL.
The Montreal Canadiens' 5th overall pick in 2024, Ivan Demidov, is constantly being benched by his head coach over there, and despite his impressive production, despite playing extremely well, despite being named Rookie of the Month, they don't seem to be using him to his full potential.
Ivan Demidov with the Canadiens to replace Patrik Laine?
It's certain that Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton have thought about it, but despite all the circumstances mentioned above, it unfortunately doesn't seem very realistic in the short term.
Bob Hartley, who is certainly well-positioned to answer this question and knows the inner workings over there very well, was asked about it yesterday by Martin Lemay on BPM Sports.
He has a contract there, and his team needs him (even if they don't seem to realize it yet). They're not simply going to release him to please the Montreal Canadiens.
That being said, he has one year left on his contract.
| POLL | ||
Do you think Kent Hughes should do everything to bring Ivan Demidov right away? | ||
| Yes | 276 | 51.8 % |
| No, be patient with him | 257 | 48.2 % |
| List of polls | ||
