The Montreal Canadiens began their preseason slate of games on Saturday night. The Canadiens won both of those matchups over the Toronto Maple Leafs in a split-squad affair. Martin St. Louis was behind the bench for the game in Montreal. And he witnessed another step in the evolution of Ivan Demidov.

Demidov scored a goal in the win over the Maple Leafs on Saturday. The young winger was poised throughout the game, and always looked to be a factor. He is becoming more of a well-rounded player. St. Louis spoke about what is making him more of a threat in the offensive zone after the win.

“Demi’s a really good passer, but I think he’s learning to find that balance and make the best play possible instead of just making a pass,” said St. Louis, via Eric Engels of Sportsnet. “I think with experience, he can make clearer reads on it instead of always thinking of passing. That always gets better with experience.”

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Demidov certainly looked to make more of an impact with his shot. He attempted nine shots on goal in the win over the Maple Leafs. Three of them went on goal, but the shot attempts show he is evaluating the play in real time. Demidov is not stuck in a pass-first mindset.

It was a remarkable way to begin the preseason for the Canadiens. St. Louis has some tough decisions to make in the next couple weeks. Demidov's roster spot is secure, though. If he keeps this up, he could be an absolute force this coming season.