An exciting collaboration between the Nashville Predators, the National Hockey League (NHL), and NewsChannel 5 is set to captivate audiences with an innovative animated broadcast titled “Music City Hockey in Smashville.” Scheduled for April 1st at 6 p.m. CT, this unique program will take viewers on a thrilling journey through Nashville’s vibrant downtown area. The event aims to engage families and hockey enthusiasts alike by showcasing the city's rich culture while educating them about the sport. Through this initiative, the Predators hope to foster a deeper connection with their community and introduce new fans to the game.

The animated adventure will feature the team mascot, GNASH, as he embarks on a quest through Music City. Along the way, he will meet various friends at iconic landmarks, guided by clues from Predators announcers Max Herz and Chris Mason. This interactive experience promises to highlight the charm of Nashville while providing educational content about hockey and teamwork. The program will also include appearances by Predators players who will answer questions on diverse topics ranging from the sport to local music. The collaboration underscores the Predators' commitment to celebrating their home city's uniqueness and engaging with fans in creative ways.

Lyn Plantinga, Senior Vice President of Local Media at NewsChannel 5, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. "This event offers a fresh perspective on hockey, combining entertainment and education in a way that only Nashville can deliver," she remarked. Dr. Meg Rush, President of Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, added that the event would bring joy to both patients and families. "The Predators have been long-standing supporters of our hospital, and this new venture will surely brighten many lives," she said.

The broadcast marks the Predators' first appearance in an animated data visualization, utilizing Sony’s Beyond Sports’ advanced technology. Real-time data from NHL EDGE Positional Data and optical tracking systems will animate every aspect of the game, making it accessible and entertaining for fans of all ages. This initiative is part of the NHL’s ongoing efforts to leverage cutting-edge technology to enhance fan experiences globally. The program will be available on-demand on @NHL on YouTube and NHL.com following its initial airing.

The Predators are also introducing a new loyalty program called Smashville Loyal, which transforms season-ticket memberships into exclusive experiences. Participants will enjoy tenure-based benefits and early access to seat selection events for future seasons. By joining now, fans can secure their spots for upcoming games and become part of this exciting new chapter in Predators history.