Quick thread on Vasili Demchenko: My belief is that in giving him a one-year, two-way deal the Canadiens are purely beefing up the competion behind Carey Price and buying Cayden Primeau more time at the AHL level. I do believe they intend on signing an established NHL vet, too.

As for Demchenko, "He's willing to do whatever the team needs, play wherever the team wants him to play for a chance to some day be a regular in the NHL," says agent Dan Milstein. No promises have been made.

Milstein also gave some background on Demchenko:
-Three years ago he took part in Arizona Coyotes camp and fielded a few NHL contract offers. Decided to return to Russia instead and continue to improve his game.

-Demchenko's been coming to a goaltending camp in Ottawa that Milstein sets up every year. Among the particpants is Andrei Vasilevskiy.
-NHL teams were aware of him and put him back on the radar when he made it clear he would consider NHL offers upon expiry of his KHL deal.

-Throughout the season, Demchenko was in close communication with Montreal's Vincent Riendeau (goaltending scout), who watched him play and was scouting him. And, as of November, Demchenko told Milstein that his top priority was to sign with Montreal if they came calling.

Back to #Habs goaltending picture--obviously, it's crowded. But that will sort itself out over time. It's a top priority to have a good backup behind Price, and it's clear the Canadiens want more capable depth at the position.