The third meeting of the season between the Predators and Stars comes tonight in Dallas (at 7 p.m. CT).
Nashville (21-9-4) has dropped two games in a row overall, but won their first two contests of the season with the Stars on Oct. 12 and Dec. 5. The Preds won 5-2 in their most recent trip to Big D earlier in the month. After falling to the Winnipeg Jets and Carolina Hurricanes to start the week, the Predators are seeking a win to end their two-game skid prior to the Christmas Break.
Dallas (19-14-3) has climbed back into a playoff spot in the Western Conference with at least a point in their last three games. After falling in overtime to the Philadelphia Flyers and Washington Capitals, the Stars blanked the Chicago Blackhawks, 4-0, on Thursday night.
The Predators held an optional morning skate on Saturday; defenseman Ryan Ellis (non-roster injury) participated in the session. Craig Smith (day-to-day; lower-body) did not skate in Friday's practice; below is a projected lineup based on the session:
Projected Lineup: Predators at Stars
Anthony Bitetto Could Return to Preds Lineup; Craig Smith Absent from Friday's Practice
© Glenn James
