Ivan Demidov and Lane Hutson: Montreal’s Engine for the Future

A New Standard of Talent and Work Ethic

The Montreal Canadiens are entering a transformative phase, and according to Tony Marinaro on the Sick Podcast, Ivan Demidov is set to become a driving force of this new era. From the very first moment he stepped onto the ice at the Bell Centre, Demidov’s talent was evident. There was no need for flashy shootout contests or influencer hype—his ability spoke volumes.

This raw skill wasn’t a surprise to those who had followed his rise in Russia, where his highlight reels already hinted at a superstar in the making. What makes him truly special, however, isn’t just his natural talent—it’s the foundation of elite work ethic he shares with Lane Hutson.

Marinaro emphasized that Demidov is “built in the same mold” as Hutson, who earned admiration this past season for his relentless training routines, even on off days. Both players are setting a new cultural tone for the Canadiens—one driven by discipline, daily grind, and internal motivation.

The Young Core Sets the Tone

With Demidov and Hutson anchoring the youthful foundation, the Canadiens possess something rare: two high-skill players who elevate the group through example. Marinaro suggested this dynamic could become the internal fuel that pushes other young talents—like Juraj Slafkovsky, Cole Caufield, Kirby Dach, and Alex Newhook—to raise their game.

As Marinaro puts it, players will look at Demidov and Hutson and think, “I’m going to push it just as hard.” This ripple effect of competitive drive can’t be overstated. It’s not just about goals and assists—it’s about cultivating a winning culture from the inside out.

A Roster in Transition: Challenges and Unknowns

Marinaro also acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the Canadiens’ broader direction. While the additions of veterans like Noah Dobson and Alex Newhook have added solid core pieces, Montreal has yet to address all of its roster needs. The risk remains that the team could take a step backward rather than forward.

Even with a playoff appearance in the rearview mirror, Marinaro cautions that the Canadiens’ trajectory is still “more of an unknown than people would like.” The internal development of players like Demidov and Hutson might just be the most reliable catalyst for continued growth this season.

The Real Factor: Internal Growth

What separates contenders from pretenders in today’s NHL isn’t just what happens on trade deadline day—it’s what happens behind closed doors in practice rinks and gyms. That’s where Demidov and Hutson are making the biggest impact.

For Marinaro, this internal growth is “the greatest opportunity for the Canadiens to continue to move forward right away.” As much as strategy and acquisitions matter, it’s the mindset and daily habits of players like Demidov that will determine the team’s ceiling.

Conclusion: Building a Culture, Not Just a Roster

The Canadiens are more than just a collection of young talent. They’re building something deeper—a sustainable, work-driven culture. Ivan Demidov and Lane Hutson represent the model of what Montreal hopes to become: skilled, committed, and relentless.

As they influence the locker room and challenge their peers, the Canadiens aren’t just evolving—they’re beginning to self-generate progress from within. And in today’s NHL, that’s how dynasties begin.