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The Edmonton Oilers tabled an offer to the Montreal Canadiens in attempt to add Andrei Markov to their haphazard defensive core, according to Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun.

Markov, who will be an unrestricted free agent this summer, expressed his desire to stay in Montreal, but the Habs appear reluctant to provide the lengthy term he desires. While Markov's age -- the Russian is 35 -- presents grounds for hesitation, the Canadiens will also be required to allocate most of their defensive dollars to P.K. Subban, who will be a restricted free agent at season's end.

Meanwhile in Edmonton, captain Andrew Ference -- at a mere $3.25 million cap hit -- represents the lone Oilers defenceman signed through next season and beyond. Unlike his Canadien counterpart, Oilers general manager Craig McTavish certainly has the budget to give Markov the contract he desires.

Per the report, Montreal is seeking a prospect and a pick for its most-seasoned back-peddler.