Demidov gives the NHL debut with Canadiens against Blackhawks

Montreal and Columbus (38-33-9) each have two regular season games.

“The biggest game of the season,” said Canadiens coach Martin St. Louis. “I think it was important … because as a team we didn’t go much for pregame skate on the ice. I have the feeling that we had no great starts at home, so I thought I would switch that.

“I think it was important for us to feel with the group and Demidov Demidov to feel the group. I think it was important. I took everything. Make it up for the greatest game of the season. Happy that it is at home.”

Demidov led the Ska St. Petersburg from the Continental Hockey League with 49 points (19 goals, 30 templates) in 65 games and broke the record of Kirill Kaprizov (42) for most in a KHL season from a player in the KHL. In six playoff games before Ska St. Petersburg was eliminated 5-2 against Dynamo Minsk with 5-2 defeat against Dynamo Minsk on April 6, he equipped with five points (three goals, two templates) with 5: 2 defeats.

“We are thrilled to have him here, but at the moment the focus is obviously trying to get 82 games with two games in one season,” said Kent Hughes, General Manager of Canadiens. “The coaches and players who get involved in this position. We would be enthusiastic (to the clinch) and it is only so much more experience for our group if we continue to grow.”