What happened: TheHockeyNews.com put Ivan Demidov atop its NHL forward breakout watch list for the upcoming season. The assessment follows his first full campaign with Montreal.
Why it matters: Further growth would add another high-end scoring threat to the Canadiens' lineup. The attention also raises expectations for the 2024 fifth-overall pick in his second full NHL season.
By the numbers: Demidov produced 19 goals and 43 assists in 82 games; assists accounted for 69% of his 62 points.
What to watch: Watch Demidov's early-season role and production as Montreal tests whether the projected leap materializes.