There are times in this job when the thing right in front of you will dictate how you analyze a larger issue, which is maybe just a way to make a particular day more interesting, but that’s how Sunday afternoon was unfolding for me in Bridgestone Arena.



Win for a second straight day over the defending Stanley Cup champion St. Louis Blues and for a third straight game — for the first time since October — and that settles it. The Nashville Predators should go for it. Forget the idea of trading away a Mikael Granlund or a Craig Smith. You’re right on the cusp of playoff position now. Get in and see if you can make a run.



But lose to the Blues? To continue home woes that have become the norm? To fail for an eighth time in a row to turn two wins in a row into three in a row? To demonstrate for the countlessteenth time that you can’t be trusted? Bag it. Sell away, Mr. David Poile. See if you can take advantage of an in-demand asset to replenish...