Montreal's Demidov Sidelined 2-4 Weeks Due to Lower-Body Issue
Montreal announced that forward Ivan Demidov will be out two to four weeks with a lower-body injury. The 20-year-old had one goal and one assist in two games and will miss his first contest since becoming a full-time NHL player. As a rookie, he played all 82 games, led first-year players with 62 points, and was a Calder Trophy finalist.
Montreal disclosed Tuesday that Ivan Demidov, 20, will sit out two to four weeks because of a lower-body ailment. He was absent from the club's morning session before its home opener against Carolina, after also not practicing Monday, which the team attributed to treatment.
Demidov recorded one goal and one assist across two appearances. During his rookie campaign, he suited up for all 82 contests, topped all first-year players with 62 points, and finished as a Calder Trophy finalist. He added nine points in 19 playoff games. Montreal shifted Kirby Dach to the second line and brought Florian Xhekaj into the lineup.
The absence may affect Montreal's early-season results and fan expectations, while creating more responsibility for teammates such as Kirby Dach and Florian Xhekaj. It could shape how the club manages Demidov's workload and injury prevention going forward. Supporters who follow the young forward may be disappointed, and local media and game-day businesses could see modest changes in attention. The broader societal impact is likely limited, as this is primarily a sports story.