Center Jerred Smithson checks Capitals defenseman Dennis Wideman in a game earlier this season (Getty Images)



SUNRISE, Fla. ­ Florida Panthers Executive Vice President & General Manager Dale Tallon announced today that Florida has acquired C Jerred Smithson from the Nashville Predators in exchange for a sixth round pick in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft previously acquired from Dallas.“Jerred is a hard working, responsible, veteran player who plays well at both ends of the ice,” said Tallon. “He is a very good penalty killer, who has consistently ranked among his team’s leaders in face-off win percentage.”Smithson, 33, has played in 526 career National Hockey League games for Los Angeles (2002-04) and Nashville (2005-12) recording 89 points (36-53-89) and owns a career face-off win percentage greater than 55%. This season, he ranked second among all Predators in face-off win percentage (55.6%), while placing third in hits (98). The Vernon, British Columbia native has played in 31 playoff games, all with Nashville, registering three points (2-1-3) and 37 PIM.Sunrise Sports & Entertainment is the premier company of its kind in South Florida. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube. Home to more than 200 events annually and the Florida Panthers hockey club, the Broward County-owned BankAtlantic Center welcomes more than two million guests each year.