Habster’s take:

If Andrei Markov continues his strong two way game throughout the season and can remain health, there is no reason to believe he won’t get strong consideration for the Norris Trophy. When the season comes to an end, Markov will be considered a great bargain at $5.75 million per season when he’s compared to other defensemen in the league (See my article: Fair market value and Andrei Markov).
It’s also nice to see him become more of a vocal presence in the locker room with his teammates and the media. At first, it was a communication problem which changed into shyness with learning a new language but with time and added responsibilities on and off the ice, Andrei has stepped up and realized his importance to this organization. His loyalty to the Canadiens organization has been constant which in this day and age is rare and rather refreshing.
In hindsight, Bob Gainey looks like a genius when he decided to make Andrei Markov his top priority in the off season and let Sheldon Souray test the UFA market. I watched the Oiler/Wild game last night and Souray struggled even more than usual against the fast skating Wild players (the Western Conference is a more offensive/wide open type of game than the Eastern Conference).
With the addition of Roman Hamrlik(rarely makes an error), Souray departure and Markov’s continual improved play, the Canadiens will be a better team in the long run and should only improve with the development of prospects like Alexei Emelin, P.K.Subban, Ryan O’Bryne, Pavel Valentenko and Ryan McDonagh……..I can continue but the list is too long!!! Isn’t that a nice change from the Rejean Houle era!!!!