Your mid-week notes include a look down the road as Shea Weber's career continues its ascent, a review of the best goaltenders in the NHL since the Great Lockout, and the ultimate time-killer for hockey fans. All this and more after the jump...

With a little help, Kings finally have playoff look - Sporting News

Craig Custance looks at which teams that missed the playoffs last season have the best shot at returning next spring. It includes the line, "nobody is going to expect Nashville to contend," which probably suits the underdog spirit of Predators fans just fine.

Shea Weber's star still rising - Nashville Predators Examiner

Jim Diamond notes that Shea Weber appears to be a safe pick for Canada's Olympic team, and then ponders the scenario for the summer of 2011, when his contract expires and he becomes a restricted free agent. Might he enter the ranks of the highest-paid players in the NHL?

The Best Goalies Since The Lockout - The Copper & Blue

A statistical look at every active NHL goaltender to play 20 games since the lockout, and also who has been the best at the position. There's good news and a bit of melancholy in here for Predators fans.Red Wings sign depth defenseman Andy Delmore - MLive.com

Detroit signed the goal-scoring defenseman who played for Nashville for two seasons, and will likely use him in the AHL at their Grand Rapids affiliate.

U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Class of 2009 Unveiled - USA Hockey

This year's class for the US Hockey Hall of Fame (located in Eveleth, Minnesota, if you didn't know) consists of Tony Amonte, Tom Barrasso, John LeClair, and one of the most important figures in all hockey history, Mr. Frank Zamboni (yes, that Zamboni).

Pulling the Goalie - Behind The Net at Puck Prospectus

Gabe Desjardins examines a question that's among the most often I get asked - just how effective is pulling the goalie for an extra attacker late in the game?

The Current State of the Preds Roster and the Top 6 Forward That Got Away.. - Brandon Felder

Brandon shares a rumor that says the Preds were in on the bidding for a high-profile Top Six forward, although perhaps not as close to winning out as we'd like to hope.

Custom Made Hockey Jerseys - SportingStore.com

You think you can do a better job of designing a new Predators jersey? Check out this tool from the Sporting Store (used to place orders). After customizing away to your heart's content, take a screenshot and put your suggestion in the comments below (found via Puck Daddy).