Preds head west after loss

Throughout history, those seeking to better their fortunes have often chosen to head West. The Nashville Predators are taking a Western journey this week and the results of this trip could very well determine their fortunes for the rest of the season.

With the NHL All-Star break starting Saturday, the Predators have three games left: tonight at 8 against the Phoenix Coyotes; Wednesday with the Anaheim-now- not-so-Mighty Ducks at 9:30; and the Los Angeles Kings Thursday at 9:30. The Predators need to close the gap between the Kings and Coyotes as they try to gain one of the eight play-off spots in the Western Conference.