Top 5 1st round 2024 NHL Draft class players who may not sign entry-level contracts feat. Ivan Demidov

The 2024 NHL Draft class boasts players with the potential to transform the teams that selected them. However, the clubs must first sign these top picks to an entry-level contract before the players can suit up for their respective teams.

While one might imagine that it’s virtually guaranteed that each first-round pick from the 2024 NHL Draft will sign, some circumstances may delay putting ink to paper on that entry-level deal. With that in mind, here’s a look at the top five first-round picks from the 2024 NHL Draft who might not sign with their respective clubs.

Top 5 1st round 2024 NHL Draft class players who may not sign an entry-level contract

#5: Anton Silayev

The New Jersey Devils picked the talented Russian defenseman to bolster their blue line. However, there’s a strong possibility that Silayev may not sign with New Jersey as he is still under contract in the KHL.

The 6’7” defenseman is committed to playing with the Nizhny Novgorod until 2026. Given the agreements between the NHL and KHL, the Devils will need to wait until the 18-year-old’s contract expires in Russia or a release in order for him to sign in North America.

#4: Cayden Lindstrom

Cayden Lindstrom was selected fourth overall by the Columbus Blue Jackets. However, the 18-year-old center is expected to return to the Medicine Hat Tigers of the WHL for one more season. As such, he may delay in signing his entry-level deal until after this upcoming season.

#3: Tij Iginla

Utah may have to wait one more season to see its 2024 NHL Draft first-round selection hit the ice. Tij Iginla, son of former Calgary Flames legend Jarome Iginla, will most likely return to Kelowna of the WHL for one more season.

The talented left winger could potentially sign at any time. However, it seems he might delay his decision to turn pro for one more year as he continues to develop his game.

#2: Carter Yakemchuk

Yakemchuk is another top prospect from the WHL. The 6’3” defenseman appears to be headed for another year with Calgary in the WHL. Like all the other prospects on this list, the seventh-overall pick by the Ottawa Senators could sign at any time. Nevertheless, another year in junior would help improve his development before turning pro.

#1: Ivan Demidov

The Montreal Canadiens selected Demidov at No. 5. However, like other Russian players, Demidov is under contract with the KHL. Demidov is signed for one more season with the SKA St. Petersburg club, making him ineligible to sign until his contract expires.

Like Anton Silayev, Demidov’s Russian club could release him so he could play in North America this upcoming season. However, that situation seems unlikely at this moment. Montreal fans may have to wait another year before seeing their 2024 NHL Draft pick put on a red Habs sweater.