Andrei Markov confirms he intends to return to the NHL.

A former Montreal Canadiens is dead set on a return to the National Hockey League, although how realistic that is at this time still remains a mystery to everyone but him and the 31 teams in the NHL.

This week former Montreal Canadiens defenseman Andrei Markov had a chance to speak with veteran Canadiens reporter Stu Cowan of the Montreal Gazette and it was during that interview that Markov revealed he very much intends to play one more season in the league. Cowan asked Markov point blank if it was his intention to play in the NHL this year, Markov is coming off of an expiring contract in the Kontinental Hockey League, and the 40 year old blue liner admitted that this was indeed the case.

“Yes, but it’s not just my decision,” said Markov as per The Gazette.  “I’m trying to prepare myself for that, but we’ll see what’s going to happen, you know.”

It's not surprising to learn that Markov would want one more year in North America; for one the pay in the National Hockey League is quite good, but I suspect that there may be other factors motivating Markov to return. The former Montreal Canadien is just 10 games shy of hitting the 1000 career games plateau, something he could have already achieved had he not bolted for the KHL 2 years ago, and I would imagine that it has been on the back of his mind ever since. 

Of course the long time NHL veteran has only ever played for a single team during his career, the aforementioned Canadiens, and Cowan was quick to ask him if a return to Montreal was what he desired. 

“That’s my dream, you know. But, like I said, it’s not up to me. We’ll see … we’ll see what’s going to happen. I’m not kind of in a rush. I’ll try to train hard and prepare myself.”

Canadiens general manager Marc Bergevin refused to give Markov a multi-year deal 2 years ago, which is what led to Markov leaving the NHL, and I would find it difficult to believe that his stance has changed with Markov now pushing 40. However it sounds like Markov also realizes this and has adjusted his demands accordingly. 

“Most probably it’s going to be my last year. I’m looking for a one-year contract and try to enjoy that and give my all.”

It would certainly be something to see Markov hit the 1000 game marker, all of which would have been with Montreal, but I suspect this may be wishful thinking on his part.