Thursday Habs Headlines: The Canadiens need to play their best game no matter the opponent

Montreal Canadiens news and notes

• Besides improved luck, the Habs need to make sure they are playing their best hockey every night, even against inferior teams. [TSN 690]
• Angela Price took over the league Instagram story to share some “backstage” videos of Habs wives and girlfriends. [NHL on Twitter]
• Claude Julien believes his team played well against Columbus, but just ran into a case of bad luck. [Montreal Gazette]
• Brian Gionta will have his jersey retired by Boston College.

Around the league and elsewhere

• The PWHPA announced that the Dream Gap Tour will return to Toronto in January. [CBC]
• Washington’s Garnet Hathaway received a three-game suspension after spitting on Anaheim’s Erik Gudbranson during Monday’s game. [Sportsnet]
• Top 2020 prospect Alexis Lafreniere was fined by the QMJHL for inappropriate language toward an opponent and abuse of an official. [Twitter]
• The Toronto Maple Leafs (9-10-4) announced on Wednesday that Mike Babcock has been relieved of head coaching duties, and Marlies’ coach Sheldon Keefe will take over. [TSN]
• Despite recent rumours, the Calgary Flames are not interested in selling low on Johnny Gaudreau. [31 Thoughts]