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Ivan Demidov is one of the top players available heading into the 2024 NHL Draft. Demidov is ranked as TSN's Bob McKenzie's second-best player heading into the draft.
In the NHL.com's draft rankings, Demidov is projected as a future All-Star and potential MVP candidate.
"Demidov is being touted as one of the most talented Russian prospects in recent years, capable of making the impossible seem routine. He could be a top-line talent and a potential MVP candidate with a high-end projection of putting up more than 100 points in his prime," Demidov's scouting profile says.
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Demidov is a Russian forward who recorded 23 goals and 37 assists for 60 points in the Russian junior league. The forward won't have to wait longer to hear his name called and here are three teams who could select him.
3 potential landing spots for Ivan Demidov in NHL Draft
#1 Chicago Blackhawks
The Chicago Blackhawks have the second-overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft and they have been linked to Artyom Levshunov, a defenseman out of Michigan State.
However, if Chicago looks to get a running mate for Connor Bedard, taking Demidov makes a lot of sense. The two would play on the top line and immediately run the powerplay which is a top-ranked unit.
#2 Columbus Blue Jackets
The Columbus Blue Jackets at fourth overall could be a logical landing spot for Ivan Demidov in the 2024 NHL Draft.
The Blue Jackets are also linked to a defenseman with the fourth pick, but similar to the Blackhawks, pairing Demidov with Adam Fantilli helps solidify their offense.
Demidov is considered to be one of the most skilled offensive players in the draft and Columbus needs to add more skills to their lineup.
#3 Montreal Canadiens
The Montreal Canadiens at fifth overall seem like the likely landing spot for Ivan Demidov.
In most mock drafts, Demidov has been linked to the Montreal Canadiens who need to add more scoring heft to their lineup. The Russian is under contract through to 2025 but would immediately make the Canadiens' lineup in two years from now.
