The Montreal Canadiens have announced they will honor former defenseman Andrei Markov with a pre-game ceremony on December 3rd at the Bell Centre, prior to their game against the Winnipeg Jets. This tribute will celebrate Markov's 16 seasons with the team.

Markov, now 46, was drafted by the Canadiens in the sixth round, 162nd overall, in the 1998 NHL Entry Draft. After developing his skills in Russia, he came to North America and split time between Montreal and their AHL affiliate before becoming a mainstay on the Canadiens' blue line. He was known for his steady reliability and quiet brilliance.

Over his 990 games with the Canadiens, Markov recorded 119 goals and 453 assists for 572 points. Among Canadiens defensemen, he ranks second in assists and games played, and third in goals. He also contributed 5 goals and 27 assists in 89 playoff games. Markov's consistent play and ability to control the game's pace made him a key part of the Canadiens' defensive identity for nearly two decades.

Markov's career with the Canadiens ended after the 2016-17 season due to a contract dispute with then-general manager Marc Bergevin. Markov sought a two-year contract, but Bergevin only offered one. Unable to reach an agreement, Markov returned to Russia and signed with Ak Bars Kazan of the KHL. He won the Gagarin Cup with them in his first season. He later played one final season with Lokomotiv Yaroslavl before retiring from professional hockey in 2020.

Despite the way his time in Montreal ended, Markov expressed his love for the team and the city. After being turned down by the Canadiens, Markov returned to the KHL to play one final season with Lokomotiv Yaroslavl, posting 1-6-7 totals in 23 games before retiring.

The Canadiens have a tradition of honoring fan favorites, including P.K. Subban and Saku Koivu. Markov's return to the Bell Centre on December 3 will provide a chance for fans to show their appreciation for his contributions to the team. This tribute night is viewed by many as long overdue.