INJURY UPDATE
Closer to returning: Forward Scottie Upshall, who hasn't played since suffering a groin injury Nov. 15, continues to practice with the Predators and will be re-evaluated this weekend.
If the injury is not troubling him at that point, he's likely to be sent to Milwaukee on a conditioning assignment.
Missing practice: Center Vern Fiddler and defenseman Greg Zanon missed practice on Wednesday because of minor injury concerns, but Trotz said both are likely to be ready for Friday's game against Columbus.