Great news! Kent Hughes confirms Montreal Canadians’ interest in signing any of these three top centermen available at the same price range. Which of them would you prefer to see enter the Bell Centre?

Habs GM disclosed in a recent interview;

It has been ten days since the Canadiens selected Ivan Demidov fifth overall. Since then, fans have hoped that one day he will play in the Habs’ top six. Because Demidov was definitely not drafted to be a terrific power player. However, given that he is still under contract in Russia for one year, we doubt it will happen before 2024-25. If he ends his campaign early in Russia, he may only play a few games at the end of the season. Earlier today, huge developments occurred in Russia, as the KHL separated from the IIHF and became controlled by the Russian Hockey Federation. We’re discussing adjustments that largely affect those entering the KHL.

Marc Dumont says in an article for MontrealHockeyNow that, in practice, this gives players who desire to play in the NHL more leeway. In truth, it appears that an NHL team and a KHL team can directly negotiate about a player, and if an agreement is reached (which may or may not include financial compensation), the player can be transferred. In theory, the Habs could negotiate with SKA to bring Demidov to America right now. Bringing Demidov to America in 2024-25 might not be a bad idea. However, it is not necessary.