Demidov Named Rookie of the Year in the KHL….read more…..

Demidov Named Rookie of the Year in the KHL….read more…..

June 1, 2025 — Moscow, Russia — Matvei Demidov has officially been named the Rookie of the Year in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL), capping off a breakout season that has drawn comparisons to some of the league’s most electrifying young talents in recent memory.

The 18-year-old winger for SKA St. Petersburg dazzled fans and analysts alike with a mature, high-octane playing style well beyond his years. Demidov finished the 2024–25 regular season with 45 points in 56 games, including 21 goals and 24 assists, leading all first-year players by a wide margin. His offensive prowess, combined with defensive responsibility and a strong hockey IQ, made him a standout from the very beginning of the campaign.

The announcement was made by KHL President Alexei Morozov at a press conference held at the league headquarters in Moscow. “Matvei Demidov represents the future of Russian hockey,” Morozov said. “His skill, vision, and composure under pressure have been phenomenal to watch this season. He is a deserving winner of this award.”

Demidov, who was selected 4th overall by SKA in the 2023 KHL Junior Draft, had been widely regarded as one of the top prospects entering the season. Yet even with high expectations, his impact exceeded predictions. He was regularly featured on the team’s top lines and power-play units and played critical minutes in several high-stakes games.

“It’s an incredible honor,” said Demidov in a post-award interview. “I’ve worked really hard to contribute to the team and grow my game this year. I want to thank my coaches, teammates, and my family for all the support. This is just the beginning.”

The award adds to what is expected to be a busy summer for the young phenom. Demidov is already being closely watched by NHL scouts ahead of the 2025 NHL Draft, where he is projected to be a top-five pick, if not a contender for the first overall spot. His combination of speed, stickhandling, and playmaking ability has placed him in elite company among global prospects.

Veteran SKA forward Vadim Shipachyov praised his young teammate’s dedication: “Matvei listens, learns, and brings intensity every day. He has the mindset of a pro already, and his ceiling is very, very high.”

Fans have embraced Demidov as one of the faces of the KHL’s next generation, with his jersey among the top sellers in SKA’s store this season. He was also recently nominated for the KHL’s Goal of the Year for a highlight-reel solo effort against CSKA Moscow in December.

As SKA St. Petersburg looks to build on a promising playoff run next season, all eyes will remain on Demidov’s development. Whether he stays another year in the KHL or makes the leap to North America after the NHL Draft, his trajectory is clearly upward.

With the Rookie of the Year trophy now in his possession, Matvei Demidov’s journey to hockey stardom is well underway — and this is likely only the first of many accolades to come.