Andrei Markov to miss the next three games

TAMPA BAY - Following Tuesday afternoon's practice session at Amalie Arena, head coach Michel Therrien confirmed that Andrei Markov would miss the Canadiens' next three games with a groin injury.

That means that the 38-year-old defenseman, who has already missed three straight outings, will be unavailable against the Lightning on Wednesday night, the Florida Panthers on Thursday night, and the Pittsburgh Penguins on New Year's Eve.
Therrien did indicate, however, that there's a good a chance the veteran rearguard will be ready to return to active duty when the Canadiens embark on their next road trip on January 2.
With Markov still out, the Canadiens recalled defenseman Ryan Johnston from the AHL's St. John's IceCaps on Tuesday.
Earlier in the day, the Canadiens also announced that Alex Galchenyuk and David Desharnais hit the ice for the first time on Tuesday since sustaining their respective injuries. Andrew Shaw, meanwhile, continues his rehab work at the Bell Sports Complex in Brossard.