Photo credit: Alexander Wohl-Imagn Images
Ivan Demidov is closing in on a significant performance bonus with the Montreal Canadiens.
The young forward is now just one goal away from the 20-goal mark, a milestone tied to a $250,000 bonus in his entry-level contract.
As expected, Canadiens management built several performance incentives into Demidov’s deal, but this particular one stands out for a different reason.
According to circulating reports, Demidov is already on track to earn the maximum $1 million in bonuses this season through other, more attainable clauses in his contract.
In other words, this 20-goal bonus is not something he needs in order to reach that total.
That is what makes the story so interesting.
While many rookies would be content collecting that money through games played or ice time, Demidov reportedly wants to earn it by scoring.
Ivan Demidov is approaching a 20th goal with major significance
See what’s being reported here:
“Demidov will earn $1 million in bonuses this year regardless, but the player’s preference is to earn it through goals.”
– PuckPedia
It is this personal preference from the player that says a lot about his attitude and character.
Demidov clearly wants to earn that money by scoring goals on the ice, out of pure pride and competitiveness.
Choosing the harder path instead of the easier one says a great deal about his drive. Refusing to settle at such a young age is an extremely promising sign for the Canadiens.
Martin St-Louis surely loves hearing that.
Seeing a young player reject shortcuts and push himself to earn everything the hard way suggests he truly has the mindset of a special talent.
Having players with that mentality in the locker room can only help the Canadiens in key moments moving forward.
Ivan Demidov, 20, has 62 points in 81 games this season. He is a 6-foot-1 forward and a first-round pick by the Montreal Canadiens in 2024.
He is currently just one goal away from the 20-goal mark this season, with 19.
Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics
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