The Montreal Canadiens kept a relatively quiet profile this offseason. Rather than chasing high-profile free agents or engineering blockbuster trades, general manager Kent Hughes focused inward—securing the future of two pivotal young contributors with significant long-term commitments.
On July 1, the moment he became eligible, Ivan Demidov inked an eight-year contract worth $73.2 million, carrying an average annual value of $9.15 million. The 20-year-old forward is coming off a standout rookie campaign in which he recorded 62 points, including 19 goals, in 82 games and finished second in Calder Trophy voting behind defenseman Matthew Schaefer.
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Demidov’s enthusiasm for the group around him was unmistakable: “Just look at our team. We have a good core, everyone is around the same age and everyone wants to win the Cup. Everyone is hungry.”
One day later, goaltender Jakub Dobes followed with his own substantial commitment: a three-year deal valued at $16.08 million. The 25-year-old seized the starting role last season, posting a 29-10-4 record and a .901 save percentage.
These extensions further solidify a Canadiens core already locked in through at least the 2029-30 season. Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, Juraj Slafkovsky, Lane Hutson, Noah Dobson, and Kaiden Guhle are all under contract for the long haul. Together, that group guided Montreal to the Eastern Conference Final, overcoming the Tampa Bay Lightning and Buffalo Sabres in grueling seven-game series before falling to the Carolina Hurricanes in five games.
The early exit still carries a lingering sting. Yet with this young, hungry core now secured for years to come, the organization believes its best hockey remains ahead. Hughes’ measured approach this summer—prioritizing internal stability over external splash—signals a clear belief that the foundation is already in place.