Markov will be held out of the lineup Friday against the Devils for rest-related reasons, Tom Gulitti of The Record reports. With the Habs' playoff spot already secure, the 36-year-old Markov will sit out with the team playing its second game in as many days. Coach Michel Therrien's decision to keep Markov out should prove beneficial in helping the blueliner feel fresh heading into the postseason. Sergei Gonchar will take his spot in the lineup Friday, but look for Markov to draw back in Sunday against the Panthers.