The Predators went from -32C to the much more temperate climate of Vancouver BC for their game against the Canucks. It's a critical game for Nashville in a matchup where they are completely outmanned and outgunned.

Vancouver continues to run away with the west and is just marking time before the playoffs start. The Predators have gotten into a habit of playing down to (or up to) their competition, dropping two to conference worst Edmonton, taking two from division leading Detroit. On paper, this one shouldn’t be close, and that could be the best news of all.

Pred Nation’s brewing up some coffee and will settle in for a late one… 9pm puck drop, coverage on 102.9 the Buzz and Fox Sports Tennessee.

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Random Notes

- In the "It ain't all that bad" department - The Predators are only two points behind last seasons 100 point pace.

- The standings update… The Predators are 10th in the conference tied with Anaheim at 73 points. Chicago is 4th at 76 points, Phoenix is 5th also at 76. Calgary is 6th with 75, Dallas and LA are at 74. Minnesota trails Nashville by one point and Columbus trails by 4.

- Tonight’s impact games – Minnesota is at MSG for a game against the Rangers, Columbus visits Edmonton, Phoenix and LA hook up at the Staples Center and Detroit visits San Jose.

- Former Predator Dan Ellis is doing a great job in net for the Anaheim Ducks. Nice to see him land on his feet…

- While March Madness gets underway… a colder version also gets going as college hockey determines the sixteen teams going to the NCAA tournament. Atlantic Hockey, the ECAC and CCHA begin their tournaments this weekend. Hockey East and the WCHA hold their tournaments next weekend.

- Checking in on the Baby Preds… the Milwaukee Admirals are leading the Western Conference of the AHL… considering all the callups for wounded Preds, Lane Lambert should be knighted for the excellent job he’s doing.

- Ales Hemsky is down again, the oft-injured winger is out for two-three weeks with a shoulder injury. Dodged that one…

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You are invited to follow me on Twitter. Search for @PredPAPaul… Not only will I be updating when I get news or updates, but we are having a bit of fun by getting your input on Gnash introductions, weigh in on Twitter and who knows, we may use your introduction for the best mascot in the NHL at the next Preds game!

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COMING UP ON THE NEXT SLAPSHOT RADIO…

Thanks to Boomer Gordon for joining us on SlapShot Radio last night… the podcast is posted at the SlapShot Radio podcast page… www.slapshotradio.com

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