Ivan Demidov's interview with Canadiens social team brings plenty of optimism

The Montreal Canadiens social team recently released a written version of their interview with Ivan Demidov this summer. In the interview, the Russian superstar was adamant that he was ready for the opportunity with the Canadiens and shared an understanding of the culture he was joining. While some players may shy away from Montreal's spotlight, Demidov seems ready to take it head-on.

The interview took place before the season began, and Demidov said he wants to add muscle and explosion as he develops with SKA-St. Petersburg this season. Luckily, much of that development will occur in the gym, as he gets few opportunities to build on the ice. In the times he has gotten ice time, Demidov has shown unbelievable skating ability, vision, and playmaking. When comparing his clips from last season to this season, it has been easy to see that he is successful in his quest to become more solid and explosive.

The social team also asked Demidov about his ability to handle the pressure a market like Montreal will bring. His answer is a welcome sight for Canadiens fans and could change the team's culture. After their poor start to the season, culture has been a hot-button topic amongst fans, as the fans worry that the young core is getting too comfortable with where they are. Demidov had no idea how the Canadiens season would begin, but it was almost like he predicted what would happen in his answer about pressure.

When people are in their comfort zone and they have no pressure, it’s bad for their development. That’s why, for me, I love it when people love hockey. All they talk about is hockey: goals, assists and moves. That’s why, for me, it’s a really great city.

Let's hope that Demidov's following quote will age well. Demidov spoke about his excitement to learn from Martin St. Louis, who we know is under fire after the team's start. Will St. Louis remain the head coach once Demidov comes to North America?

After the draft, I met with him [St. Louis] and Vincent Lecavalier. They’re two people whose resumes are really impressive. That’s why, for me, a coach like Martin St-Louis is cool because we are similar players. He has a great hockey IQ. He can teach me hockey secrets, like on the power play. I want to learn it.

Demidov is saying all the right things and looks like the talent and culture-changer the Canadiens need. I speak for all fans when I say Demidov must come to North America ASAP.