In a bit of surprising news, Andrei Markov will be introduced tomorrow as a member of the KHL team VItyaz Chekhov tomorrow according to Dmitri Chesnokov.

Tomorrow #Habs Andrei Markov will be introduced as a #KHL Vityaz player. — Dmitry Chesnokov (@dchesnokov) October 2, 2012

Markov had expressed interest to Dave Stubbs of the Montreal Gazette in joining the KHL if the lockout didn't end soon as he wants to play meaningful hockey after so long being deprived of it.

There were concerns that he may not be able to get an offer in the KHL due to the high cost of insuring his NHL contract and considering his past injury history, but Vityas has taken the risk.

According to Stubbs Markov is in great health and is just itching to play, but it's natural for many fans to be a little nervous about this decision. If Markov were to play in the NHL and get injured, there would be annoyance among fans about it, but if he gets injured in the KHL, there will likely be some fury among the rabid fanbase.

Vityaz operates out of Moscow in the Chekhov district, and is known for playing a tough, North American style game, which doesn't seem to suit Markov's talents. However perhaps their penchant for a rougher game will keep other teams from targeting Markov physically, so that could be a good thing.

Either way, we'll continue to update you on Markov's play and health as he flies out to Russia to play some pro hockey.