Five points separate the Predators and the Stars in the standings, with both teams vying for the Central Division's final playoff sport. Dallas has three games in hand.
The Preds (22-19-1) fell on Saturday and saw their three-game winning streak conclude. Goaltender Pekka Rinne played for the first time since March 28 and made 31 saves in the 3-0 loss to the Lightning. Defenseman Ryan Ellis returned from a 20-game absence due to injury and recorded two shots and two hits in nearly 20 minutes of ice time.
The Stars (15-14-10) also played yesterday, but were victorious, taking out the Panthers, 4-1. Dallas and Nashville have squared off six times this season, with both teams winning a trio of times. They'll play one more time - after tonight - on May 1.
Afternoon Update:Forward Michael McCarron has been suspended by the NHL for two games for an illegal check to the head. Winger Tanner Jeannot has been recalled from the Chicago Wolves (AHL). Forward Mathieu Olivier has been placed on Injured Reserve.
The Preds did not hold a morning skate on Sunday after playing last night. Below is a projected lineup based on Saturday's game:
Projected Lineup: Stars vs. Predators
Vanderbilt Health Projected Lineup: Ellis Returns; Preds, Stars Play Pivotal Game for Final Playoff Spot Positioning
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