Nashville Predators Launch Advertising Campaign Targeting Atlanta Thrashers Fans

It's hasn't been that long since Atlanta lost its second hockey franchise, but that isn't preventing the Carolina Hurricanes and Nashville Predators from trying to lure the fans of the nonexistent franchise.

A source told ESPN.com on Friday that both teams are exploring the possibility of having their games broadcasted in the Atlanta area for the 2011-12 season. The teams have already spoken to Fox Sports and the league about the possibility.

Nashville is taking things a little father by creating an advertising campaign that's aimed at Thrashers fans, with the catchphrase "Thrash to Smash." The campaign will sell ticket plans for a weekend game once a month and hotel packages. Predators CEO Jeff Cogen said he does not know how the ticket plans will be sold yet, but a few plans have already been sold.

"It's sort of an awkward situation, if you will," Cogen told ESPN.com.