The Preds signed G Dan Ellis to a 2-year deal yesterday and traded G Chris Mason to division rival St. Louis.

They also signed D Ryan Suter to a contract extension.

LW Darcy Hordichuk was acquired by the Carolina Hurricanes in exchange for a fifth-round pick in 2009. Should they fail to sign him Carolina will receive Nashville's fifth-round pick in 2010.

All of this is good news for the Preds if they can replace Darcy's size and aggression. Though he did not contribute much in points he was a bruiser and besides Jordan Tootoo we are deficient in that respect.