The Ivan Demidov Saga is Typical KHL Hockey Politics

When the news hit about Ivan Demidov getting scratched for a playoff game, and possibly the entire playoffs, it sparked a wave of anger online. I get it. I am immune to puzzling moves by KHL franchises because many of them have an agenda and a lot of times writers and fans try and figure it out and sometimes you can’t because we just don’t know.

Looking into Demidov’s season, it’s really good. I can’t find any issues on the stat sheet. He has 22 goals and 33 assists in 68 games. Not a point-per-game but he’s only averaging 13:47 ice time so the production is exceptional. Again, even though he’s a goal scorer, he’s 19 and his contract is up so shenanigans ensue. If he ends up playing in the MHL to try and win a championship, nothing can be done about that. At least he will be playing.

According to InStat, he is getting 27% defensive zone starts. So without saying it, the coaching staff has faith in him while he gets his limited ice time. The prospect has done his part and can’t do much about the rest. 

The Canadiens are being smart by not commenting or showing outrage. If it all hits right, he will be on the team next season. Once Demidov is out of Russia, that’s the time that fans can get really excited. Before that, it is just a hope and hoping that he can join the team for a potential playoff run is probably too much to wish for based on how long visas are taking and other factors.