On Monday, the Phoenix Coyotes travel to Nashville and face off against the Predators.

The Predators upgraded their team by adding Peter Forsberg from the Philadelphia Flyers, who had a less-than-stellar debut against the Minnesota Wild the other night. However, a dangerous team with another weapon cannot be good for the Coyotes or for the Western Conference. I wouldn't be at all surprised if the Detroit Red Wings upgrade their team in some fashion before the trading deadline February 27.

The Coyotes hold a 2-1 lead in the series against the Predators this season with the Coyotes winning the last two, but both franchises were different teams for the times they last fought; the Predators were trying to find their way, and the Coyotes looked to be on the road to solidify theirs.

Right now, both teams could not be further apart. The Predators are trying to keep pace with the Detroit Red Wings for the coveted number one seed and the Coyotes are evaluating talent and professionalism because their post-season dreams have been dashed.

It is vitally important that if players want to keep playing in a Phoenix Coyotes sweater, especially with the team that gave them a renewed life in the NHL, playing for pride is the only way to go.

With the addition of Forsberg, one would think the rink would be selling out easier considering the team was a solid playoff contender for the second year in a row without Forsberg in the mix. As of right now, according the Predators website, there are 3500 tickets remaining for the contest.

During his career in the NHL, Forsberg has been an impact player. When he gets used to the new system and his teammates, he most likely will be that X-factor in a game that will decide whether or not the Predators win or lose. With such a commodity in their midst, it is a shame that the fans have not embraced the sport to recognize it.

The game for both markets is radio only and on radio only broadcasts, Jeremy Roenick has a solid night filled with hard checking and scoring significant goals. Hopefully, that trend will continue.

The Coyotes will take any spark that they can get.

Original post by PB and software by Elliott Back

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