Andrei Markov's early return could be a saving grace both for the Canadiens and the Russian Olympic team.

BY LOUIS JEAN
sportsnet.ca

The Montreal Canadiens have barely kept their head above water during Andrei Markov's absence.

The all-star defenceman was supposed to be out of commission until February with a lacerated Achilles tendon but all signs are pointing towards an early recovery.

Markov skated alone for close to an hour on Friday and accompanied the team to Atlanta.

The Russian blueliner will meet with team doctors early next week and the speculation is he could return before Christmas.

"It doesn't matter what my feeling is," Canadiens coach Jacques Martin said. "He's going to see the doctor. The medical staff is going to determine when he's going play but it's positive, it's encouraging to see him back but he hasn't been in any competition yet. It's just drills so the next step will be for him to compete but we haven't had the okay yet from the doctor."

While Markov's early return could be a saving grace both for the Canadiens and the Russian Olympic team, another Canadien is making a case for himself in Vancouver.

In spite of the slew of injuries that have decimated the Habs, Mike Cammalleri has exceeded expectations with 17 goals. The diminutive sniper is on pace to score a career-high 48 goals.

"I haven't hidden the fact I was disappointed this summer with not getting an invite," Cammalleri commented about the Canadian Olympic team camp. "All I can worry about is trying to do the best job I can with this team here. I think the more we win, hopefully they got to make a decision. For me it would be a great honour. I've played for Canada five times and I've always jumped at the opportunity and really enjoyed that experience."

Some suggested Cammalleri couldn't duplicate the 39-goal season he had last year when he was playing on a line with Jarome Iginla. While there's still a lot of work to do, the Canadiens' $30-million man gives a lot of praise to his teammates -- especially his centre-man.

"Pleky (Plekanec) has been so good this year. No one can do it on their own. Gretzky had Kurri, you know what I mean! Lemieux had Jagr and Recchi. You don't do it on your own ever in this league."