Extension Close as Canadiens and Demidov Get Ahead of NHL Contract Rule Change

Expect a long-term deal between the Montreal Canadiens and Ivan Demidov to get finalized and officially announced almost immediately as the calendar turns from June to July. The forward is eligible to sign an extension, and Eric Engels of Sportsnet makes it clear that a Demidov long-term extension with the Montreal Canadiens isn’t just likely—it’s imminent.

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The timing couldn’t be more favorable for the forward. With the current NHL collective bargaining agreement set to expire on Sept. 16, Demidov has a narrow window to maximize his earnings both on term and signing bonuses. If he signs before that date, he’s eligible for an eight-year deal with signing bonuses exceeding 60 percent of the contract’s value. Afterward, those benefits disappear, with contracts capped at seven years and stricter bonus limits.

That financial gap creates a powerful incentive to act quickly. Even if waiting until the end of his entry-level deal in 2027 might yield a higher cap hit, locking in now allows Demidov to secure more guaranteed money upfront and over a longer term. Given his limited leverage as a restricted free agent and his stated desire to stay in Montreal, there’s little reason to delay.

This is what the Canadiens want anyway, a long-term deal. “There’s no doubt we see Ivan as a core player to the team,” said GM Kent Hughes at the team’s end-of-season availability. “Ideally, we’ll sign him to a long-term contract.” “I like the city, I like the team, I like all the boys, and our management of our team is pretty good, so I’m good with that,” said Demidov. “I want to stay here, yeah.”

Both sides appear fully aligned. Management views Demidov as a core piece, and the player has openly embraced the team and its future. As for what the AAV will look like on an eight-year deal, Nick Suzuki is the team’s highest-paid forward at $7.875 million per season. There’s a very good chance that Demidov winds up making between $8 and $10 million per season.

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