RDS is reporting that all-star defenceman Andrei Markov will return to the lineup Saturday night against the New York Islanders. Markov hasn't played a game since opening night against the Laffs when he suffered tendon damage in his ankle after being cut by teammate Carey Price's skate. The original timetable for Markov's return was estimated to be some time in February. But it appears he is well ahead of schedule and received clearance from team doctors (I hope they know what their talking about) to play. Markov is arguably the Habs top player with seasons of 46, 49, 58 and 64 points in his last 4. He has played in 2 all star games and will more than likely anchor Russia's blue line at the upcoming Olympics in Vancouver.In other injury news, winger Brian Gionta has resumed skating and is eyeing a return in the near future. Gionta suffered a broken bone is his foot and has missed the last 17 games. Despite that, he still sits 3rd on the team in goals with 8. Winger Beniot Pouliot will play his first game in Hamilton on a conditioning stint tonight. No word yet on how much time defenceman Roman Hamrlik will miss, but I doubt he will play Saturday.
