In a thrilling turn of events that showcased the future of hockey, Montreal Canadiens general manager Kent Hughes witnessed the gold-medal game between Russia and Slovakia at the 2021 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, a game that would impact his team in more ways than one.
Although Hughes was not physically present at the game, it turned out to be a pivotal moment for the Canadiens as it brought forth two players who would play a significant role in his tenure. The clash featured forward Juraj Slafkovsky and winger Ivan Demidov, with Demidov emerging victorious as Russia claimed gold by defeating Slafkovsky’s Slovakian squad.
Demidov, the fifth overall pick in the 2022 draft, quickly became a key component of Montreal’s rebuild. With an impressive performance of 23 goals and 60 points in just 30 games last season with SKA-1946 St. Petersburg, his addition to the Canadiens roster was highly anticipated. The excitement reached a new level when global icon Celine Dion was brought in to announce his selection at the draft in Las Vegas.
“Our scouts were very high on him throughout the year,” shared Hughes. “He showcased remarkable maturity and confidence without arrogance, qualities that truly impressed us. His consistency and dedication to improving his game were evident from the very beginning.”
On the other hand, Slafkovsky, the first pick made by Hughes as Canadiens GM, demonstrated significant growth after a challenging rookie season. Scoring 20 goals with 50 points in 82 games last season, the 20-year-old forward proved his worth and solidified his role in the team.
“We were confident in Juraj’s potential right from the start,” expressed Hughes. “His maturity and determination stood out to us, showing that he was willing to do whatever it takes to elevate his game and contribute to the team’s success.”
Both Slafkovsky and Demidov were rewarded for their hard work and dedication, as Slafkovsky signed an eight-year, $60.8 million contract extension and Guhle inked a six-year, $33.3 million extension. These signings reflect the Canadiens’ commitment to nurturing young talent and building a formidable team for the future.
As Hughes continues to shape the Canadiens into contenders, the success story of Slafkovsky and Demidov serves as a testament to the team’s promising future. With a blend of talent, dedication, and perseverance, the Canadiens are poised to make a mark on the hockey world and carve out their legacy in the sport.