This Day in Habs History for Nov 1

1952: Jacques Plante, called up by Montreal to replace injured goalie Gerry McNeil, beat the New York Rangers 4-1, in his first NHL start. In his three game replacement trial he went 2-0-1 with a 1.33 GAA, before being returned to the Montreal Royals.

1959: Plante returned to the ice wearing a mask, after being hit in the face with a shot by Andy Bathgate, in New York. It marked the beginning of a new era in hockey. Plante led the Canadiens to a 3-1 win over the Rangers.

A video interview of Plante biographer, and friend of the site, Todd Denault on Plante changing the history of the game. If you're a hockey history fan, and haven't read it yet Todd's book, Jacques Plante: The Man Who Changed the Face of Hockey might be something to add to your holiday wish list.

1961: Claude Provost became the 10th player in Montreal history to score 100 goals as a member of the Canadiens. The milestone came in a 3-2 loss tothe Toronto Maple Leafs.

1975: Michel Larocque recorded his 4th career shutout in the Canadiens' 4-0 win over the visiting Rangers.

1976: Steve Shutt scored twice as the Canadiens won 3-2 over the Buffalo Sabres, to begin a team-record 34 game unbeaten streak (28-0-6)

Habs born on this day: Phil Myre (1948)