Canadiens suddenly ban fans from practice facility amid speculation

The Montreal Canadiens' practice facility in Brossard is typically open to fans hoping to catch a glimpse of their favourite players hitting the ice, but on Wednesday morning, things were different.

A security guard reportedly prevented fans from entering the CN Sportsplex ahead of the team's scheduled practice, set to begin at 11:30 a.m. According to journalist Patrick Guillet, supporters were blocked from entering the building before the session was due to start.

Guillet openly questioned what the organization might be trying to keep under wraps, and speculation quickly mounted. Fans and observers quickly pointed to one name: Ivan Demidov.

According Patrick Friolet, the highly touted prospect is believed to be training solo at the facility this week. If accurate, that would explain why the Canadiens may have wanted to keep prying eyes away from the building during the morning hours.

Demidov, the organization's young superstar, has been sidelined with a foot injury and is expected to practise on his own this week. Any appearance at the team's practice complex at this time would attract significant attention and scrutiny regarding a potential return to action.

The decision to restrict fan access, even temporarily, is notable for an organization that generally allows supporters to watch practices. It suggests the Canadiens wanted to provide Demidov with a controlled, private environment to get his work in without the added pressure of onlookers and phone cameras.

While this could mean anything at this point, the short ban at the Brossard facility raised questions about Demidov’s injury and possible return. Stay tuned.