The Montreal Canadiens are facing a wave of injuries, yet one decision continues to puzzle fans: Zachary Bolduc has not been paired with Ivan Demidov, despite widespread belief that the duo would be tested early this season.
With Kirby Dach, Alex Newhook, and Patrik Laine all sidelined, many expected Bolduc to finally get his chance alongside Demidov. Instead, head coach Martin St-Louis has kept the door firmly shut, leaving supporters scratching their heads.
The frustration boiled over on social media this week. “It’s Nov. 21st and Bolduc hasn’t played a single game on a line with Demidov,” wrote fan Jordan Decker in a widely shared post. “Laine, Dach and Newhook are all injured and Demi and Bolduc still hasn’t been tried.”
The offensive potential of the pairing seems obvious. Demidov thrives as a playmaker, while Bolduc has the finishing touch. Fans argue that one simple decision could spark a struggling lineup, especially with Montreal desperate for a win against the Toronto Maple Leafs tonight.
Instead, general manager Kent Hughes announced the recall of Florian Xhekaj from the Laval Rocket, adding another wrinkle to the lineup shuffle.
The Canadiens’ refusal to test Bolduc with Demidov has become one of the most talked-about storylines in Montreal hockey circles. For a team battling inconsistency and injuries, the question remains: why not try the combination that fans believe could change everything?