Montreal Canadians Head coach Martin st. Louis Made major Statement, Declaring that Superstars Lane Hudson and Ivan Demidov are Now The…
Montreal Canadiens Head Coach Martin St. Louis Makes Bold Statement: Lane Hutson and Ivan Demidov Are Now the Faces of the Franchise
Montreal, QC – In a defining moment for the Montreal Canadiens and their future direction, head coach Martin St. Louis made a bold and heartfelt statement on Thursday afternoon, declaring that young superstars Lane Hutson and Ivan Demidov are now the faces of the franchise. The announcement, made during a press conference at the Bell Centre, signals a powerful shift in the team’s identity as it continues its rebuilding phase.
“Lane and Ivan are not just promising talents — they represent what this franchise is becoming,” St. Louis said. “Their work ethic, passion, and dedication to the game are exactly what we want to build around.”
The move came as a surprise to many, not because of the talent of the two young players, but because of how quickly they’ve risen to prominence in one of the NHL’s most tradition-rich organizations. Both players have impressed during training camp and preseason matchups, and their chemistry, effort, and leadership potential have clearly caught the attention of the coaching staff.
From Rising Stars to Franchise Leaders
Lane Hutson, a dynamic and smooth-skating defenseman, has been on the radar since his standout years at Boston University. Drafted 62nd overall by Montreal in 2022, Hutson’s stock has soared as he’s proven himself at every level of competition. He recently signed his entry-level contract and is expected to be a key piece on the Canadiens’ blue line this season.
Ivan Demidov, drafted 5th overall in the 2024 NHL Draft, was seen as one of the most skilled and NHL-ready forwards in his class. The Russian winger brings elite playmaking, offensive flair, and a goal-scorer’s mentality. In recent exhibition games, Demidov has been electrifying, creating highlight-reel plays and earning the admiration of teammates and fans alike.
“These two aren’t just playing great hockey,” said St. Louis. “They’re setting a tone in the locker room. They’re hungry, they’re humble, and they’re driven to make this team great.”
A Turning Point for the Canadiens
The Canadiens have been in a rebuild for the past few seasons, and while players like Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield remain core parts of the roster, St. Louis made it clear that Hutson and Demidov represent the beginning of a new chapter.
“We’re not replacing anyone — we’re adding leaders,” St. Louis explained. “We want to create a culture where leadership isn’t just about age or experience. It’s about impact, mindset, and how you carry yourself every day.”
The announcement also included hints that Hutson and Demidov may receive expanded roles this season, including more ice time on special teams and leadership responsibilities in the locker room.
Fan and Media Reactions
As news of St. Louis’ comments spread across social media, Canadiens fans responded with a mixture of excitement and optimism.
“Hutson and Demidov as the new faces? Let’s go! The future is bright,” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter).
“It’s a new era in Montreal, and I’m all in. These kids are special,” wrote another.
Local media outlets have also praised the move, calling it a strong message of confidence in the team’s youth and a sign that the organization is serious about building a long-term contender.
Building Toward a Competitive Future
Montreal General Manager Kent Hughes issued a supporting statement after the press conference, backing St. Louis’ vision and highlighting the work being done behind the scenes.
“We’ve made significant investments in scouting and development to get to this point,” Hughes said. “Lane and Ivan represent everything we’re working toward — skill, character, and a relentless will to win.”
With training camp nearing its conclusion and the regular season fast approaching, the Canadiens appear to be embracing a fresh start led by two of the league’s most exciting young talents.
The Players Respond
Neither Hutson nor Demidov seemed fazed by the spotlight. Both players took questions from reporters following the announcement and expressed gratitude for the trust placed in them.
“It’s a huge honor,” said Hutson. “To hear that from Coach St. Louis — it means everything. I just want to go out there, play my game, and help this team win.”
“Montreal feels like home already,” Demidov added. “The fans, the team, the city — I want to give them everything I’ve got.”
As the Canadiens look to climb back into playoff contention, the spotlight now shines brightly on Lane Hutson and Ivan Demidov. With the full backing of the coaching staff and the city behind them, the stage is set for a new era in Montreal — one fueled by youth, speed, and limitless potential.
