Montreal defenseman Andreï Markov left North America today for his homeland Russia. His father, who was fighting a disease for an extended period of time, finally succumbed Friday. Bob Gainey allowed Andreï to take a week off, and more if needed.
Veteran Karl Dykhuis will replace the young defenseman, who had step up as the top offensive defenseman after the lost of Sheldon Souray.
All habs fans thoughts are with Andreï and his family.