Stars at Predators
THE STORY: Nashville Predators captain Shea Weber probably would like nothing better than to exact revenge on the Dallas Stars when the clubs meet at Bridgestone Arena on Thursday. Weber has missed four games since suffering a concussion in a 6-3 loss at Dallas on Dec. 23, but returned to practice Tuesday with limited contact. The defenseman, who leads Nashville in scoring with 29 points, is questionable for Thursday's rematch. The Predators have won three straight after losing their first game without Weber. They have captured nine of 12 overall and seven of eight at home. Dallas is looking to turn things around after dropping three of its last four contests.
TV: 8 p.m. ET, FSN Southwest (Dallas), FSN Tennessee (Nashville)
ABOUT THE STARS (21-16-1): Defenseman Stephane Robidas is likely to be in the lineup after being activated from injured reserve on Wednesday. The 34-year old has not played since Dec. 19, missing six games with a foot injury suffered during practice the following day. Robidas has recorded two goals and nine assists in 32 contests this season. Blue-liner Brenden Dillon, who was recalled on Monday but has yet to make his NHL debut, was assigned to Texas of the American Hockey League to make room on the roster for Robidas.
ABOUT THE PREDATORS (21-14-4): Jordin Tootoo already has matched his career high of 18 points in just 37 games. The rugged right wing registered eight goals and 10 assists in 54 contests last season after notching 11 tallies and seven assists in 63 matches in 2007-08. Tootoo has collected 15 points over his last 18 games. Along with Weber, center Colin Wilson practiced Tuesday as he attempts to return from an upper-body injury. Wilson, who has missed two games, has recorded eight goals and 22 points in 37 contests.
OVERTIME:
1. Dallas' Benn brothers played their first NHL game together Tuesday. Defenseman Jordie picked up an assist in his debut while left wing Jamie, who leads the team with 37 points, scored a goal and set up two others in the 5-4 loss to Detroit.
2. The Predators have won nine of their last 11 contests against Western Conference opponents.