Deprived of their best defenseman since the first game of the season, the Montreal Canadiens have experienced a roller coaster ride that has seen them fall to fourth in the Northeast division, only two points ahead of the Toronto Maple Leafs.
In the process, the Canadiens' defense has been shaky. However, this is not due entirely to Markov's absence, as injuries have left their mark as well.
After sitting out for 11 weeks, Markov finally returns to a team that desperately needs him.
The return of Markov is a godsend for the Canadiens. Their breakout, which has been God-awful at times, will benefit greatly from his return. The power play as well should receive a significant boost.
He adds another dimension to the power play in the form of his excellent on-ice vision, as well as his booming shot from the point. The Canadiens' defensemen have had a hard time this season connecting cross-ice feeds to forwards, but that should change with Markov back in the lineup.
What must be kept in mind is that although Markov is returning ahead of his previously scheduled February return date, his presence alone will not immediately reviv ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NHL
Article written by Felix Sicard
Andrei Markov Returns From Injury: What It Means For The Canadiens
December 18th, 2009 by Felix Sicard Leave a reply »
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