Are the Montreal Canadiens about to hand out one of the most lucrative extensions in franchise history to a 20-year-old? If you’ve been following the meteoric rise of Ivan Demidov, you already know he possesses the elite offensive toolkit to justify a massive payday. According to trusted Montreal Canadiens insider Stu Cowan, Demidov is likely staring down a staggering $9 million Average Annual Value (AAV) on his next contract.
With one season remaining on his entry-level deal, the dynamic winger becomes eligible to sign his extension starting July 1st. In today’s NHL, elite general managers don’t wait for young superstars to peak before paying them; they aggressively buy up their prime years early. We’ve seen it across the league, and the Habs’ front office is playing the exact same modern cap game. But is $9 million too steep, or is it a calculated bargain that will look like an absolute steal in three years? Let’s dive deep into the Habs’ salary cap architecture, how this proposed deal stacks up, and what it ultimately means for Montreal’s Stanley Cup window.
Why a $9 Million AAV Makes Sense for Ivan Demidov
Looking at the internal cap hierarchy in Montreal right now, the arithmetic starts to make perfect sense. Currently, Noah Dobson anchors the top of the payroll as the highest-paid Canadien with an AAV of $9.5 million. Right behind him, starting next season, is defensive sensation Lane Hutson at $8.85 million. According to Cowan’s insights, Demidov’s next contract will slot right between those two foundational pillars, landing squarely in that $9 million neighborhood.
As someone who analyzes NHL rosters and cap management daily, I can tell you this: the Canadiens’ front office has orchestrated an absolute masterclass in asset management. By locking up their promising young stars on reasonable long-term contracts early, they are effectively securing their core for their most productive years. Bridge deals often end up costing teams millions more in the long run. By committing to Ivan Demidov now, they are avoiding the “superstar tax” that hits when a player inevitably explodes for a 90-plus point season.
Balancing the Montreal Canadiens Salary Cap
When Montreal officially commits this kind of money to Ivan Demidov, it won’t hamstring their flexibility. Thanks to the NHL salary cap rising substantially, the Habs will still possess sufficient cap room moving forward. This means they can comfortably make required additions through strategic trades and free agency without shedding critical roster players to stay compliant. The Demidov deal isn’t just about rewarding a young talent; it’s a strategic pillar in building a perennial contender.
Ivan Demidov Career NHL Stats
| Type | GP | G | A | P | +/- |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Season | 84 | 20 | 44 | 64 | 4 |
| Playoffs | 5 | 0 | 2 | 2 | -5 |
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