Canadiens' Markov returns to lineup, set to play beside Nesterov

Andrei Markov will return to a new linemate Tuesday night.

The Montreal Canadiens defenseman will play his first game since Dec. 17 Tuesday when the club takes on the Buffalo Sabres, the team announced.

Markov's return from a 19-game absence with a lower-body injury will see him slotted with newly acquired Nikia Nesterov, according to TSN's Amanda Stein.

Nesterov was acquired by the club Thursday for blue-liner Jonathan Racine and a 2017 sixth-round pick.

Markov's return will provide a huge boost to the team as the 38-year-old currently leads all Canadiens defensemen in points per game this season, having posted 21 in just 31 games.