Montreal Canadiens: More on the Andrei Markov Departure
By Omar L
Hours after it was announced that Montreal Canadiens defenceman Andrei Markov will not return to the team, news broke that he will be going to the KHL.
It’s been an emotional day for Montreal Canadiens fans. This morning, we found out that Andrei Markov will not be returning to the team for next season. It was a mixed bag of anger and frustration from some fans and sadness from others.
The emotions got worse when Markov appeared on TSN 690. Some of the things the 38-year-old had to say pulled on the heart-strings of a lot of people. He took the time to thank the organization and the fans for his long tenure in the city. What made it worse, was that you could hear the sadness in his voice. It gave the impression that Markov really did want to stay.
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The call got a little more interesting when Markov touched on the negotiations. Apparently, he told Canadiens’ management that he wanted to remain on the team for the rest of his career. Additionally, Markov told them that he was willing to take a one-year deal.
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Now this is contrary to the original belief that Markov was looking for a two-year deal. It makes it a harder pill to swallow the fact that the Habs wouldn’t even want him for a single year. This just hammers home the point that it was more the Montreal Canadiens saying goodbye to Markov rather than the other way around.
The Russian-native told TSN that he had received offers from other teams. In fact, it was tweeted earlier from Igor Eronko that Markov would be joining the Florida Panthers.
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However, that belief has now been debunked after the bomb of the conference call was announced. It’s not just the Canadiens that he will be leaving. Markov is leaving the NHL to play in the KHL next season.
According to KHL insider Aivis Kalninš, the destination looks to be AkBars Kazan. The team went 38-18-0-2 last season and missed the playoffs. Not only is this a good opportunity for Markov to help improve the team, but he will also be able to play for Team Russia in the 2018 Winter Olympics.
This may be one of the most emotional departures in latest memory. The fact that Markov would rather play in a different league than wear another NHL jersey speaks to the kind of man he is. Although Markov is leaving, he didn’t shut down the possibility of a return to the NHL. Whatever he decides, I’m sure all Habs fans wish him luck in the future.
Next: Habs Prospect Countdown: No 17
What do you feel about Markov’s departure after the additional information? Do you think he will return to the NHL one day? Let us know what you think in the comments!