Andrei Markov: Heading back to Russia

Markov will return to his native Russia and join the KHL for the upcoming 2017-18 campaign.

Markov told reporters he couldn't imagine playing for any NHL team other than the Canadiens. No doubt the chance of suiting up at the 2018 Winter Olympics -- something he wouldn't be able to do as an NHL player -- factored into the decision as well. After 16 seasons spent only with the Habs, this will likely end the blueliner's NHL career at 990 games, in which he tallied 119 goals, 453 helpers and 505 PIM.