Behind Closed Doors: How Zachary Bolduc’s Bold Decision Is Shaking Up the Montreal Canadiens’ Offseason—and Why Ivan Demidov’s Refusal Could Change Everything

The Montreal Canadiens, a team long known for its rich history and passionate fanbase, are once again at the center of the hockey world’s attention—but this time, it’s not just about blockbuster trades or high-profile signings. Instead, the latest drama is unfolding quietly, behind closed doors, where crucial decisions and surprising player personalities are shaping the future of the franchise in ways no one could have predicted.

Photo credit: Brett Holmes-Imagn Images

The Summer of Demands: Canadiens’ Front Office Turns Up the Heat

Every summer, NHL teams look for ways to improve, both on and off the ice. For the Canadiens, this offseason has been anything but ordinary. Sources close to the organization reveal that Montreal’s front office, under the watchful eyes of Jeff Gorton and Kent Hughes, has been aggressively pushing for player development—specifically targeting their young forwards with a simple but demanding request: master the art of the faceoff.

Why faceoffs? In today’s NHL, puck possession is everything. Winning a draw can mean the difference between a game-winning goal and a crushing defeat. The Canadiens, who have struggled in the faceoff circle in recent years, know that shoring up this weakness could be the key to unlocking their full potential.

But not everyone is on board with the plan.

Ivan Demidov: The Reluctant Star

Enter Ivan Demidov, the electrifying young Russian forward who has already captured the imagination of Canadiens fans with his dazzling skillset and fearless play. Demidov, projected by many to be a future star, was approached by the Canadiens’ staff with a clear message: if you want to be a center in this league, you need to dedicate yourself to faceoff mastery.

However, in a move that has left many in the organization stunned, Demidov flatly refused. According to sources, Demidov “wants nothing to do with faceoffs,” preferring instead to focus on his offensive creativity and playmaking abilities. For some, this decision speaks to a larger trend among young, highly skilled players who bristle at the idea of being pigeonholed or forced into roles that don’t align with their strengths.

Yet, for the Canadiens, Demidov’s refusal is more than just a personal preference—it’s a potential roadblock in their quest to build a winning roster. The front office’s frustration is palpable, but their determination to find solutions has only grown stronger.

Zachary Bolduc: The Challenger Who Said Yes

While Demidov’s decision made headlines, what happened next could prove even more pivotal for Montreal’s future. The same request—to work intensively and seriously on faceoffs—was made to another young forward, Zachary Bolduc. Unlike Demidov, Bolduc didn’t hesitate. He accepted the challenge, embracing the opportunity to develop a skill that could set him apart from his peers.

Bolduc’s commitment caught the attention of the Canadiens’ brass, but it was his willingness to work one-on-one with Marc Bureau—a respected faceoff specialist and mentor—that truly set him apart. According to the always-reliable Marco Normandin, Bolduc is now engaged in intensive, personalized training sessions with Bureau, focusing on every aspect of the draw: hand positioning, leverage, timing, and the subtle tricks that separate the good from the great.

Insiders say Bolduc’s attitude has been nothing short of exemplary. “He’s hungry,” one team source said. “He wants to prove himself, and he’s willing to do the work. That’s the kind of mentality that changes teams.”

The Ripple Effect: Second-Line Center Drama

Bolduc’s newfound dedication has not gone unnoticed by the Canadiens’ leadership. Despite not being named as a top candidate for the second-line center role in a recent interview with Jeff Gorton, Bolduc is now being seriously considered for the position—a move that would have seemed unthinkable just weeks ago.

Why the sudden change? It’s simple: the Canadiens need centers who can win faceoffs, especially with Demidov’s reluctance to take on the role. Bolduc’s willingness to accept the challenge has made him an increasingly attractive option, not just as a stopgap, but as a potential long-term solution down the middle.

And with the possibility of a future line featuring Patrik Laine, Ivan Demidov, and Zach Bolduc, the Canadiens may have stumbled upon a combination that could redefine their offensive identity for years to come.

Locker Room Dynamics: Drama or Opportunity?

Of course, with any major shift in team dynamics comes the potential for drama. Some insiders wonder whether Demidov’s refusal and Bolduc’s acceptance could create friction in the locker room, especially if the latter is rewarded with a more prominent role. Will Demidov feel slighted? Could this spark a rivalry, or will it motivate both players to elevate their games?

So far, the mood around the team remains positive, with most players expressing support for each other’s decisions. But as training camp approaches and roster battles intensify, all eyes will be on how these two young stars handle the pressure—and whether their divergent paths will ultimately bring the Canadiens closer together or drive them further apart.

The Front Office: No Stone Left Unturned

One thing is certain: you can’t fault the Canadiens’ management for a lack of effort. From secret meetings to bold proposals, Gorton, Hughes, and their team are leaving no stone unturned in their quest to build a contender. Their willingness to challenge players, push boundaries, and adapt on the fly is a testament to their commitment to excellence.

Still, the outcome of these behind-the-scenes maneuvers remains uncertain. Will Bolduc’s hard work pay off? Can Demidov’s raw talent shine, even without a focus on faceoffs? And most importantly, will the Canadiens’ gamble on player development yield the results they so desperately crave?

The Road Ahead: Promise and Peril

As the offseason drama continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the Montreal Canadiens are a team in transition, caught between the promise of their young stars and the harsh realities of NHL competition. The decisions made in these quiet summer months—often away from the cameras and headlines—could shape the fate of the franchise for years to come.

For fans, the intrigue is irresistible. Will Bolduc emerge as the unlikely hero, the center who answered the call when others turned away? Or will Demidov’s defiant individuality prove to be the spark that ignites a new era of Canadiens hockey?

Only time will tell. But one thing is for sure: in Montreal, the most interesting stories are often the ones you never see coming.