Since the end of the 2024–2025 season, Ivan Demidov has been one of the most hyped-up young players in the NHL. Last night, Demidov took a hard slash from Nick Cousins that left him in immediate pain. Now, fans are pointing out one detail about the dirty play, calling it “cowardly.”
Drafted fifth overall by the Montreal Canadiens in the 2024 NHL Draft, Demidov spent the 2024–2025 season in his native Russia, tallying 49 points in 65 games for CSKA Moscow. After they were eliminated from the KHL playoffs, Demidov joined the Canadiens for their final two regular-season games and their first-round playoff loss to the Washington Capitals. In those seven games, Demidov recorded four points: one goal and three assists.
READ MORE: Nasty slash on Ivan Demidov leaves fans outraged
Ivan Demidov slashing
His performance at the end of last season raised expectations heading into this year, and he has certainly delivered an impressive preseason. But during last night’s game against the Ottawa Senators, Demidov received a nasty slash from Senators forward Nick Cousins. Demidov left the game immediately afterward. Fans are now calling the slash “cowardly” because of one detail: both of the Xhekaj brothers had already been ejected from the game.
150 penalty minutes
In total, the game saw 150 penalty minutes. Both Florian and Arber Xhekaj dropped the gloves twice and were eventually tossed from the game. Fans now argue that Cousins’ slash on Demidov was “cowardly,” suggesting he would never have taken the cheap shot if the Xhekaj brothers had still been on the ice.
Demidov’s teammate Kirby Dach also spoke out about the play:
“A strange play. It’s not a hockey play. I think if he did that out in the street, he’d be in a lot of trouble.”
Canadiens head coach Martin St. Louis echoed the sentiment:
“There’s no need for that. It’s an exhibition game, both teams are trying to get ready for a long season. I don’t think there’s any need for that in the game.”
You can see the slash below.
READ MORE: Everything you need to know about Ivan Demidov
