The Montreal Canadiens’ locker room is buzzing with a new energy, and it’s not just because of fresh faces or big plays on the ice. Behind the scenes, a dramatic shift in culture is taking hold, one that could define the future of the franchise for years to come. At the center of this transformation stands Lane Hutson, whose recent contract decision has sent shockwaves through the organization—and now, all eyes are on Ivan Demidov.

When respected columnist Martin Lemay stepped onto the podcast circuit and made a surprising statement about Demidov’s future, fans and insiders alike were left stunned. Lemay’s comments weren’t just about money or stats; they hinted at a deeper message, a challenge to the very core of what it means to wear the Canadiens jersey. As whispers spread about Hutson’s selfless gesture and the expectations now placed on Demidov, the stakes have never been higher.

What exactly did Lemay say that has everyone talking? Why is Hutson’s contract being called a “benchmark” for the franchise, and how might this affect Demidov’s career trajectory? The answers aren’t as simple as they seem—read on to uncover the full story behind the Canadiens’ new philosophy, the pressure mounting on Demidov, and the leadership that could reshape everything.

Ivan Demidov (left) Lane Hutson (right) 

Photo credit: All Habs / Canadiens

Martin Lemay surprised Canadiens fans, saying Ivan Demidov must follow Lane Hutson’s example, who accepted a smaller contract for the team’s benefit.

Since Lane Hutson’s signing, it really seems that a new tone is settling into the Montreal Canadiens locker room.

According to Martin Lemay, this mentality of putting the team first must now inspire other young stars like Ivan Demidov.

The columnist shared his opinion on the podcast Le Retour avec Martin Lemay, explaining that Hutson’s gesture went far beyond a simple contract.

Ivan Demidov must understand the message behind Lane Hutson’s contract, according to Martin Lemay

Here’s the excerpt from Lemay:

“Lane Hutson’s contract could very well become a major benchmark in the contractual history of the Canadiens.”

According to Lemay (and according to many others), the young defenseman could have demanded much more, especially with rising salaries in the NHL.

“Hutson could have asked for more than 10 million, that’s for sure.”

– Martin Lemay

This vision clearly shows the way things are being done within the Habs – that of a team wanting to build a united core rather than promote individualism.

And in this new culture, Ivan Demidov will have to find his place.

“There’s no one among the young players like Michael Hage or Ivan Demidov who can come in after a good season and say, ‘I’m going to take more than Lane.’”

For Lemay, Hutson just set the ceiling, and Demidov must draw inspiration from it.

Personally, I believe this is exactly the kind of quiet leadership that can transform a franchise like the Habs.

The young Russian has all the talent in the world, but his success may also depend on his ability to understand this team-first philosophy.