Montreal Canadiens head coach Martin St. Louis continues to make waves behind the bench, and this time, it’s a tactical masterstroke that has fans and analysts alike buzzing. In a surprise mid-season shift, St. Louis has moved star Russian right winger Ivan Demidov to center—a move that could redefine both the player’s trajectory and the Canadiens’ offensive strategy.A Bold, Calculated Gamble
Demidov, known for his dynamic playmaking and quick release on the wing, has been one of the Habs’ brightest young stars since arriving in North America. But in recent weeks, with injuries thinning Montreal’s depth at center and face-off numbers lagging, St. Louis saw an opportunity to push his elite talent into a more central role—literally and figuratively.
“We know what Ivan brings on the wing—speed, creativity, and a nose for the net,” St. Louis told reporters after Saturday’s practice. “But great players adapt. I believe he has the vision and hockey IQ to thrive in the middle, where he can touch the puck more and dictate pace.”
The First Signs Are Promising
In his first game centering the top line, Demidov didn’t miss a beat. He tallied two assists and won 60% of his faceoffs against the Tampa Bay Lightning, showcasing a new layer to his game. More importantly, he displayed improved puck distribution and defensive responsibility—hallmarks of a solid center.
Teammate Cole Caufield praised the move, calling Demidov “an absolute weapon” and saying, “We already had chemistry, but now it feels like he’s pulling all the strings.”
St. Louis’ Signature: Positionless Fluidity
Martin St. Louis has never been shy about experimenting with player roles. As a former undersized winger who defied expectations his entire career, St. Louis brings a unique vision to coaching—one that prioritizes adaptability, creativity, and trust in high-skill players.
“Martin’s coaching is all about letting guys play to their strengths, but also challenging them to evolve,” said Canadiens GM Kent Hughes. “This is just another example of that philosophy in action.”
Looking Ahead
It’s unclear if Demidov’s move to center is permanent, but if his early performances are any indication, the Canadiens may have found themselves a versatile new leader in the heart of the ice.
With a playoff push still mathematically within reach, St. Louis is betting big on this shift paying off. And if history has shown us anything, it’s that betting on Martin St. Louis’ instincts is rarely a bad call.