Long-time Montreal Canadiens defenceman Andrei Markov has announced his retirement from hockey.

Andrei Markov calls it a career per his agent. 990 NHL games in #GoHabsGo uniform being NHL All-Star twice, 2 times Russian Superleague champion, Gagarin Cup champion, World championship gold medalist. Quite a career — Igor Eronko (@IgorEronko) April 16, 2020

Andrei Markov Retires

With the KHL cancelling its season, and no timetable for a return, Markov via his agent called it a career. Originally drafted by the Canadiens in the sixth round with the 162nd pick of the 1998 NHL Draft. Markov played several years in Russia before debuting with the Canadiens during the 2001-02 season recording 24 points (five goals and 19 assists) in 56 games with the Canadiens. From there Markov went on to play 990 career NHL games all with the Canadiens. For his career, Markov finished with 572 points (119 goals and 453 assists). Also, Markov played in 89 playoff games logging 32 points (five goals and 27 assists). He was elected to the NHL All-Star Game twice (2008 and 2009). The 2009 NHL All-Star game was special for Markov as he was one of four Canadiens selected to play in front of the Montreal crowd.

Not only was he a beloved member of the team, but the city of Montreal embraced him. The fans pulled for him and wanted him back in the lineup especially during this period when he struggled with injuries. The first of many injuries occurred in 2009, in the first game of 2009 Markov suffered a lacerated ankle after colliding with a teammate. He was supposed to be out until February 2010. However, he returned in December of 2009. His returned spark the Canadiens. During the Canadiens run to the Conference final in 2010, Markov suffered a leg injury in the second round against the Pittsburgh Penguins. From that point on his knee was never going to be the same again. He would continue to have knee issues and missed a majority of the 2010-11 season.

Some of his best times in Montreal were with P.K. Subban. Those two made a dynamic defensive duo being featured on the power-play. Markov allowed Subban to show off his dynamic offensively ability. While Markov was more of a stay at home defender. Even with the success, Markov still had lingering knee issues, which played into his departure from Montreal.

Back To Russia

After the conclusion of the 2016-17 season, Markov announced he was not returning to Montreal. There was a lot that went into the decision, but ultimately Markov did what was best for him. He signed a two-year deal with the KHL’s AK Bars Kazan. He went on to win the Gagarin Cup in his first season in the KHL. In addition to those accolades, Markov was a two-time KHL All-Star and won a gold medal at the 2008 IIHF World Championships for Russia. That is quite a career.

What Lies Ahead

Nobody knows what lies ahead for Markov, but one has to wonder if reconciliation is in order with the Canadiens. Considering the way he left, one has to imagine, Markov will be brought back in some capacity. Who knows they might even retire the guy’s number.

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