For the first time since departing from the Montreal Canadiens in 2017, former defenseman Andrei Markov returned to the Bell Centre. Markov was instrumental to the Canadiens’ defense from 2000 until 2017, but had not been back since he retired from the NHL.
It’s always a special moment for Montreal fans to see one of their franchise legends at a Canadiens game; however, Markov attended the game independently, without an invitation from the organization and not for promotional reasons. In an interview with Responsible Gambler, he explained that a friend invited him while he and his family were visiting the city.
“The club didn’t know I was coming,” Markov stated. “A friend invited me. The last time I visited the city was about two years ago. People still recognize me on the street sometimes.”
Someone at the Bell Centre recognized Markov in the stands; a camera captured him and showed him on the jumbotron, prompting an enthusiastic ovation from the crowd of 21,105 during a Saturday night game against the Washington Capitals. “I came to Montreal before, but this was my first hockey game here in seven years,” Markov said. “I won’t deny that I loved the fans’ reaction.”
Throughout his NHL career, Markov played 990 games, all with the Canadiens, earning two All-Star selections and accumulating 119 goals and 453 assists for a total of 572 points.
Although he narrowly missed reaching 1,000 career games, Markov expressed interest in potentially rejoining the Canadiens organization in some capacity. “I am always open to suggestions,” he mentioned. “When I flew here with my little son, I wanted to show him everything. He was thrilled, and that means more to me than anything. Generally, I’m open to any invitations and ideas.”
Markov cherished his time in Montreal and praised the vibrant atmosphere at the Bell Centre and the city’s passion for hockey. It wouldn’t take much for the Canadiens to bring him back; all they need to do is reach out.
