Are you ready for the weekend, and the start of the Winter Olympics? I know I am, my kids are eagerly awaiting a wide variety of different events. Hockey, of course, doesn't get rolling until early next week. This morning, though, we have something new to roll out at On The Forecheck:
New Feature: Facebook Connect on SB Nation - Blog Huddle
Today we've made it easier for Facebook users to signup for SB Nation and to participate in our fan communities. And Connect makes it easier for you share what you write on SB Nation with friends on Facebook, whether you're publishing a FanPost, a FanShot or a comment.
If you have questions about the new Facebook functionality, follow the above link to Blog Huddle and ask in the comments there, where the tech guys will see it.
Now, after the jump, your morning hockey news...
Predators News
Preds On The Glass: New York City Discovers the Nashville Predators and Friday Updates
Buddy's morning notes includes a recap of a busy off day in New York for the team, including multiple spots on NHL Live, and a team outing to the David Letterman show (I saw them in one shot, sitting way in the back to one side).
Game 60 Preview: New Jersey Devils vs. Nashville Predators - In Lou We Trust
The Devils' preview includes 5 questions that they asked of Chris about the how the Preds are doing.
Predators face interesting goaltending decisions - Nashville Predators Examiner
Jim Diamond reviews the short- and long-term options in goal. Trading a goalie now is a huge risk considering the lack of a backup who is ready to step in, but do you let one (or both!) walk away in free agency?
Predators get strong play from Colin Wilson - The Tennessean
It took longer than expected, but Willy's back from the AHL, and making an impact right away.
Around the NHL
Breaking Down the Last Intentional Power Play Goal Scored by the New Jersey Devils - In Lou We Trust
Despite picking up Ilya Kovalchuk, New Jersey's power play has been in a funk lately. Let's hope it continues for one more game, OK?
Canes Now - Cullen expected to be traded today | newsobserver.com blogs
Keep an eye out for trade news today, as Carolina center Matt Cullen could be on the move.
Mike Modano Interested In Owning A Piece Of The Dallas Stars - SB Nation
Now this is interesting... the Stars center is openly pondering taking a minority ownership position as the Dallas franchise goes up for sale.
The NHL Needs Mark Cuban - The Hockey Blog
Might the Dallas Mavericks owner buy into the Stars as well? I'm sick of people promoting Jim Balsillie as the NHL's answer to Mark Cuban, so maybe getting the real thing would be better.
Panthers deal Moore to Habs - The Globe and Mail
Florida turns a journeyman forward into a 2nd-round pick from Montreal, a real steal for Panthers GM Randy Sexton.
Gretzky and the Olympic Flame : Mother Pucker Hockey
Who's going to light the Olympic Flame tonight in Vancouver? Speculation is running wild...
Lowetide: Hockey's Al Haig Still in Charge Here
As Edmonton prepares to scrap this season and look ahead, will the road out of the darkness be a long, or short one?
Optimal Even-Strength Shift Length, 2008-09 - Behind The Net
Great stuff from Hawerchuk that shows just how dangerous long shifts can be. Hustle hard, then make a change!