Canadiens announce Andrei Markov will not return
For the first time in his 16-year career, Andrei Markov will not don the iconic Montreal Canadiens sweater come the start of the season. The team announced Thursday that the unrestricted free agent will not be back with the club for the 2017-18 campaign.
His tenure with the Habs seemed likely to end after the team signed fellow veteran free-agent defenseman Mark Streit on Tuesday.
In addition to Streit, the Canadiens acquired Karl Alzner, David Schlemko, and Joe Morrow this offseason - all left-handed shooting defensemen, making it unnecessary for general manager Mark Bergevin to meet the 38-year-old's reportedly lofty contract demands.
Before Thursday's announcement, it was reported that Markov had yet to seek offers from other clubs, and many NHL teams are now up against the salary cap after the wave of offseason movement.
However, the veteran proved last season that he has plenty left in the tank. Markov recorded 36 points in 62 games with a 54.0 Corsi For rating while logging nearly 22 minutes per night. He is without a doubt the best free-agent defenseman currently available.
Markov, a sixth-round pick in the 1998 draft, sits sixth on the historic franchise's leaderboard with 990 games played, and tied for second among points by a defenseman with 572.
Canadiens owner Geoff Molson released a statement on Markov's departure:
On behalf of the entire organization, I would like to thank Andrei for his great contributions during his 16 seasons as a proud member of the Montreal Canadiens. Arguably one of the best defensemen in franchise history, Andrei was a model of dedication to the great game of hockey. A respected figure around the league and among his teammates, Andrei demonstrated leadership both on and off the ice. Andrei’s commitment to our franchise was second to none, proven by his overcoming three serious and potentially career-ending injuries. I would like to wish Andrei the best of luck in the next step of his career, and happiness with his family.