sk-logo
NHL: Montreal Canadiens at Pittsburgh Penguins - Source: Imagn

Martin St. Louis remains tight-lipped when hit with burning question of Montreal Canadiens brass visiting Russia amid Ukraine war conflict

Montreal Canadiens coach Martin St. Louis chose not to comment on Habs management's visit to Russia amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

The Canadiens GM Kent Hughes, along with scout Nick Bobrov and special adviser Vincent Lecavalier, traveled to Russia this week to meet with Ivan Demidov, their first-round draft pick playing for SKA Saint Petersburg in the KHL.

During a press conference, a reporter raised concerns about the appropriateness of the Canadiens' trip, given the current international tensions. The reporter asked:

“There are people who are saying that in terms of international politics, the MTL Canadiens should not be going to Russia during a time of war…”

Martin St. Louis, though, didn't engage with the question, simply stating that he would refrain from commenting on the matter.

“I’m not going to comment on that," Habs coach said.

Canadiens executive Jeff Gorton explained that the club has connections with their prospects worldwide, and their philosophy revolves around monitoring their progress and providing feedback on their performances.

“We have prospects all over the world, and basically, if we draft you or we sign you, you’re in our family, and we’re going to go see you and watch you play,” he said via The Hamilton Spector.
“We’re going to monitor you and let you know how we feel about your play. That’s what this is. This is a scouting trip that Kent’s on.”

Gorton added that the organization isn't worried about the implications of traveling to Russia during these times:

"It’s a short trip. He’ll be back soon,” Gorton said. “A chance for (Hughes) to see more than one player over there that’s ours. “We’re not concerned at all.”

Ivan Demidov is an electrifying prospect known for his elite creativity and puck skills. The Montreal Canadiens selected him No. 5 overall in the 2023 NHL Draft.


What's next for the Montreal Canadiens?

NHL: Buffalo Sabres at Montreal Canadiens - Source: Imagn
NHL: Buffalo Sabres at Montreal Canadiens - Source: Imagn

The Montreal Canadiens are seventh in the Atlantic Division with a record of 12-6-3, accumulating 27 points in 31 games.

They are coming off a dominating 6-1 victory over the Buffalo Sabres in their last matchup. Meanwhile, Nick Suzuki leads the team in scoring with 32 points, consisting of 11 goals and 21 assists in 31 games.

The Canadiens travel to Little Caesars Arena to face the Detroit Red Wings next on Friday. The puck drops at 7 p.m. ET.

More from Sportskeeda
Fetching more content...
comments icon

What's your opinion?
Sportskeeda logo
Close menu
Create
WWE
WWE
NBA
NBA
NFL
NFL
MMA
MMA
Tennis
Tennis
NHL
NHL
Golf
Golf
MLB
MLB
Soccer
Soccer
F1
F1
WNBA
WNBA
More
More
bell-icon Manage notifications