The fluorescent hallway outside the Montreal Canadiens’ locker room buzzed with the usual post-practice chatter—sticks clattering, laughter echoing, jerseys slung over tired shoulders. But as the players filed back, ready to unwind, a sudden hush fell over the group. Something—or someone—was waiting for them. The air shifted, heavy with anticipation, as heads turned and conversations stopped mid-sentence. There, standing quietly in the heart of the locker room, was a figure whose mere presence seemed to bend time: Andrei Markov, “The General,” the legendary defenseman whose legacy is woven into every inch of the Bell Centre.

No one had expected this. Not the rookies still finding their footing, not the veterans with a thousand games under their belt, and certainly not Ivan Demidov, the young Russian forward whose eyes widened in disbelief as he recognized his compatriot. For a moment, generations of Canadiens history collided—past, present, and future—captured in a single, unforgettable scene.

Markov, now 46, looked every bit the icon: calm, dignified, with the quiet intensity that defined his 990 games in the NHL, all played in the red, white, and blue of Montreal. He greeted Demidov with a warm handshake and a few words in their native tongue, a gesture that spoke volumes about the bonds of hockey and heritage. Nearby, Markov’s son watched with pride, soaking in the moment as the two Russians exchanged smiles and stories. It was a private conversation, but the energy in the room was electric—every player, coach, and staff member sensed the significance.

Then, as if the scene couldn’t get any more surreal, Markov turned and embraced Brendan Gallagher, a former teammate whose career had overlapped with the end of Markov’s storied run. The nostalgia was palpable, memories of playoff battles and locker room celebrations flickering in their eyes. The reunion was brief but meaningful, a reminder of the brotherhood that transcends seasons and statistics.

But perhaps the most poignant moment came when Martin St-Louis, the Canadiens’ head coach and another legend in his own right, paused everything to greet Markov. In a world where time is measured by shifts and periods, St-Louis made it clear that respect and gratitude are timeless. The two shared a quiet conversation, away from the cameras, a gesture that spoke volumes about leadership, legacy, and the enduring impact of great players.

As news of Markov’s visit spread, fans and insiders alike began to speculate: What did he say to Demidov? Was this a passing of the torch, a mentorship moment that could shape the young forward’s career? Or was it simply a reminder that the Canadiens’ history is alive and well, pulsing through the veins of every player who pulls on the jersey?

With Markov set to be honored before the next game—a tribute to his 572 points, 119 goals, and the countless memories he gave Montreal—the locker room encounter feels like more than just nostalgia. It’s a signal that greatness endures, and that sometimes, the most powerful moments happen when no one is expecting them.

Read on to discover the full story behind Andrei Markov’s surprise visit, the emotional exchanges that followed, and what his legacy means for the next generation of Canadiens stars.

Photo of Ivan Demidov and Andrei Markov

Photo credit: X/Canadiens

We were treated to a very special – and very unexpected – scene following the Montreal Canadiens’ morning practice.

The players absolutely weren’t expecting this, but a special guest was waiting to speak with them as they returned to the locker room.

We’re talking about none other than Andrei Markov!

Special scene involving Andrei Markov and several members of the Montreal Canadiens, including Ivan Demidov and Martin St-Louis

See the footage:

At the start of the video, we see a nice little moment between compatriots Andrei Markov, his son, and Ivan Demidov (they took the opportunity to chat a bit), and it’s wonderful to see!

After that, Markov reconnects with his former teammate, Brendan Gallagher, before going to meet Martin St-Louis!

St-Louis made a wonderful gesture, stopping everything and taking a moment to talk with Markov.

A beautiful sign of respect and consideration toward one of the best defensemen of the last 20 years for the Montreal Canadiens.

We also have more footage right here:

Andrei Markov, now 46, was a 6th-round pick of the Montreal Canadiens in 1998 (162nd overall), and he collected 572 points, including 119 goals, in 990 career NHL games, all played with the Canadiens.

In his final season with the Habs, he played with guys like Carey Price, David Desharnais, Jeff Petry, Tomas Plekanec, Artturi Lehkonen, Brendan Gallagher, Shea Weber, Max Pacioretty, and others.

Reminder that on Wednesday night, the man known as ‘The General’ will be honored during the pregame ceremony ahead of the Canadiens’ game against the Winnipeg Jets.