Habs Daily: Demidov Rookie Of the Year, Laval, Carbonneau

Here are the Montreal Canadiens news items, stories, and content you may have missed on Thursday.

Montreal Canadiens News

There was a (questionable) report circulating that suggested Montreal Canadiens prospect Ivan Demidov would not win the Rookie of the Year award in the KHL, despite being the clear-cut favourite. As is often the case with oversea whispers, it turned out to be much ado about nothing, as the KHL did indeed give Demidov the accolade.

He is unbelievable! Ivan Demidov is 2025 KHL Rookie of the Year!

In his first KHL season, the 19-year-old became SKA’s points leader (49 PTS, 65 GP) with just 11th TOI among forwards (13:45). #KHLAwards pic.twitter.com/qVrsWsjxMH

— KHL (@khl_eng) May 29, 2025

Speaking of Demidov, it’s clear the Habs are yet to find ideal linemates for the talented winger, but his play alongside Alex Newhook and Jake Evans in the playoffs was a very encouraging sign. [Canadiens Statistics – Ivan Demidov By The Playoff Numbers]

The Laval Rocket lost back-to-back games at Place Bell for the first time since late December. The 5-2 loss in Game 2 of their Eastern Conference Final series versus the Charlotte Checkers was a mess. Cayden Primeau was pulled, Laurent Dauphin had to leave the game, and the Rocket played into the Checkers’ hands with their frustrated brand of hockey. The series now shifts to Charlotte for the next three games.

There were two (relatively) bright spots on Thursday. After what can only be described as a very rough game, David Reinbacher scored in the dying minute of the third period during a 5-on-3. Additionally, Jacob Fowler looked pretty good, and he even stopped a Michigan attempt.

Jacob Fowler stops the Michigan attempt. #LavalRocket pic.twitter.com/RjH2sUnFZa

— Marc Dumont (@MarcPDumont) May 30, 2025

One of the main Canadiens draft targets, Justin Carbonneau, may be heading to the NCAA. [NHL Draft Prospects Habs Could Target 16th & 17th Overall]

Justin Carbonneau, who scored 46 goals in the @QMJHL this season and will be a 10th-15th overall pick in June IS heavily leaning toward playing for Boston College to team with James Hagens on BC’s top line. BUT hasn’t told BC yet he’s officially coming. The Canadian junior… pic.twitter.com/HuFziT6kd4

— BucciOT.Com (@Buccigross) May 30, 2025

National Hockey Now Network

There are times when absence makes the heart grow fonder, and there are times when absence exposes the greater deficiencies that routine and comfort mask. It is just a guess, but the Pittsburgh Penguins are most likely going through the latter after the termination of coach Mike Sullivan. [Pittsburgh Penguins]

It appears Brock Nelson and the Colorado Avalanche have mutual interest in a new deal. [Colorado Avalanche]

The first of the Philadelphia Flyers’ RFA dominoes has fallen. The team has agreed on a two-year bridge extension with 23-year-old forward Tyson Foerster. [Philadelphia Flyers]