NHL: Chicago 1, Nashville 0

NASHVILLE, April 6 (UPI) -- Bryan Bickell notched a first-period goal and Ray Emery responded with his second shutout of the season Saturday in Chicago's 1-0 victory over Nashville.

Bickell's tally came just 5:31 into the contest. On the play, he tapped in a pass from Michal Handzus, whom Blackhawks acquired from the San Jose Sharks at this week's trade deadline.

Emery turned aside 20 shots, including seven during the third period for the Western Conference leaders in the opener of a home-and-home set against the Predators.

Pekka Rinne made 29 saves as fading Nashville dropped its fifth in six games to remain four points out of the West's final playoff spot.