Saturday Habs Headlines: Ilya Kovalchuk is proving his worth

Montreal Canadiens news and notes

• There is a case to be made that Ilya Kovalchuk should stay on Montreal’s top line over Brendan Gallagher. [Sportsnet]
• Speaking of Kovalchuk, here’s a prime example of why he was the difference-maker against the Buffalo Sabres. [The Athletic]
• Could the Boston Bruins or the Dallas Stars be potential landing spots for Kovalchuk? [TSN 690]
• Even if the Canadiens miss the playoffs, don’t expect the team to part ways with its GM or head coach just yet. [Montreal Gazette]
• Cole Caufield has been on a bit of a hot streak recently. [NHL]

Around the league and elsewhere

• The NHL is looking into allegations that the Arizona Coyotes engaged in recruiting violations. [TSN]
• Oliver Bjorkstrand has proven to be more then just a goal-scorer for the Columbus Blue Jackets. [NHL]
• Alex Galchenyuk was candid about his struggles to get going with the Pittsburgh Penguins. [The Athletic]
• Here’s one lesson the NFL can take away from the NHL. [Yahoo Sports]