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There are 5 games tonight on the NHL schedule which affect the standings in the insanely tight Western Conference, where one point separates spots 3-7. Can the Preds catch a break on an off night?
Los Angeles Kings vs Columbus Blue Jackets (6:00 p.m. Central)
Each team here has won 4 out of their last 5, and 7 of the last 10. The Blue Jackets are still hanging around, only 5 points out of 8th, but with games in hand on most teams above them.
Minnesota Wild vs Chicago Blackhawks (7:00 p.m. Central)
Who'da thunk the Wild would be 3 points up on the Blackhawks at this time of the season? Tonight marks the United Center debut of Michael Frolik, who was picked up in trade by Chicago a few days ago.
Pittsburgh Penguins vs Colorado Avalanche (8:00 p.m. Central)
The downhill slide continues in Denver, as the Avs have dropped 8 straight.
Dallas Stars vs Calgary Flames (8:30 p.m. Central)
Here, as in Minnesota/Chicago, we're cheering for no overtime, thanks to the NHL's idiotic system in which some games are worth 50% more than others in the standings.
Washington Capitals vs Anaheim Ducks (9:00 p.m. Central)
Can the Capitals do the Preds a favor? They've lost three games in a row now, all against Pacific Division foes, so they'll need to turn things around.