[News] Habs announce Markov will not play for the team for the 2017/18 season

[sureLoss]

https://www.nhl.com/fr/canadiens/new...re/c-290517760

Press conference later today.

[CroFlames]

Ha. Luke Fox was just on Fan 960 saying how there is still a chance he'll play. This happened not more that 10 minutes ago.

[Gaudfather]

He was apparently asking for a two year term - was that too long for Bergevin?

[CaptainCrunch]

IF he wanted 2 years at 6 million dollars as talked about then forget about it and move on.

If you have to start moving salaries to sign for him then its time for him to find another situation.

[Toonage]

Habs had enough space to accommodate him did they not? None the less, probably a combo of his ask and his age.

[habernac]

They're weak on defense, but 6 million per for an old, slow d-man is too much.

To clarify sureloss' post, the press conference later is going to be Markov talking to reporters, not the Canadiens. I wonder if he retires.

[neo45]

Originally Posted by habernac

They're weak on defense, but 6 million per for an old, slow d-man is too much.

To clarify sureloss' post, the press conference later is going to be Markov talking to reporters, not the Canadiens. I wonder if he retires.

I bet he is going to the olympics. Seems weird for a guy to ask for a two year deal then change his mind and fully retire

[sureLoss]

Yeah signing in the KHL and going to the Olympics seem like a very good possibility.

If he was going to straight up retire, the Habs would have probably announced it.

[habernac]

I know he got his Canadian citizenship, so I'm not positive he wants to go back home. Maybe he will for a little while and then return. Good point about the Olympics.

[sureLoss]

Russian reporter:

Igor Eronko @IgorEronko
Hearing #Panthers are the likely destination for Andrei Markov #Habs

[Toonage]

Panthers say no to Jagr but yes to Markov? Sure, different positions but still, weird.

[habernac]

MONTREAL - Montreal Canadiens President and Chief Executive Officer Geoff Molson's statement on Andrei Markov.

"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," said Geoff Molson.

[Buff]

Originally Posted by Toonage

Panthers say no to Jagr but yes to Markov? Sure, different positions but still, weird.

Yeah, but Jagr is old enough to be the father of all the other NHL players. Markov is incredibly young in comparison.

[Toonage]

I suppose! if 45 is the cut off for Florida players then Markov still has a good 6 years

[Gaudfather]

Darren Haynes tweet

Andrei Markov departs Montreal after playing 990 games. The Habs avoid the expense of buying him a silver stick. (Not sold at Canadian Tire)

[tvp2003]

Good chance he'd take less to play elsewhere (i.e. Florida) given the higher taxes in Montreal?

[Commandant]

Originally Posted by Toonage

Habs had enough space to accommodate him did they not? None the less, probably a combo of his ask and his age.

This year, yes.

The 2nd year becomes the issue. It would basically mean there could be no improvements for next year. their only expiring deal would be plekanec, and his 6 million would be eaten by Price's raise and Danault needing a new deal.

So the Habs can accomodate Markov for one year, but didnt want to give a 38 year old term, and kill flexibility for the following season.

This is a huge loss though.


What they do with the 8.5 million is the interesting part. They might not have an issue committing multiple years to a younger player (via trade).

[tvp2003]

Originally Posted by Commandant

What they do with the 8.5 million is the interesting part. They might not have an issue committing multiple years to a younger player (via trade offer sheet).

Fixed

[TheScorpion]

To be considered one of the greatest players at your position ever to play for a team like Montreal is nothing short of an incredible and sign of a terrific player. I'm sure Markov will land somewhere.

[keenan87]

Markov can sign in Calgary for league minimum