He made his debut during the 1997-98 season, splitting the season between Toronto and their AHL affiliate in St. John's, while representing his homeland at the 1998 World Championships. But by 1998-99, he was a full-time NHL defenseman. Markov played three seasons in Toronto before he was traded to the Phoenix Coyotes in the deal that brought Robert Reichel and Travis Green to Toronto.

In his first season with the Coyotes, Markov established a career high in assists with 30 and points with 36 and was a member of Russia's bronze medal Olympic Team in Salt Lake City. Injuries plagued Markov in 2002-03, limiting the Phoenix rearguard to 64 games before being acquired by the Carolina Hurricanes in the summer of 2003.

Upon his arrival in Carolina, Markov tallied 14 points in 44 games before being dealt to the Philadelphia Flyers for Justin Williams. The Flyers had suffered key injuries to their blueline and hoped that the acquisition of Markov would help them compensate for their injuries. Upon his arrival with the Flyers, Markov continued to be force on the blue line, helping the club reach the Eastern Conference finals.

Although the Flyers fell short in their attempt to reach the Stanley Cup finals, Markov season would not be over, as he would represent his homeland at the 2004 World Cup of Hockey.

Following a lock out year in 2004-05, Markov was acquired by the Nashville Predators in the summer of 2005 and would compete a mere 58 games with the club. That season Markov would once again represent Russia in the 2006 Winter Olympics. Following the Predators elimination from the 2006 NHL playoffs, the feisty defenseman was acquired by the Detroit Red Wings in the off-season.

Courtesy of the Hockey Hall of Fame