Derek Smith scored with only 1:10 remaining in the first period to give the Calgary Flames a 1-0 lead over the Nashville Predators. It would be all the Flames needed as Miikka Kiprusoff picked up his first shutout of the season.

Nashville Predators' Colin Wilson, Left, Looks On As Calgary Flames Goalie Miikka Kiprusoff, From Finland, Swats Away

It was the first NHL goal for Smith. In 27 career NHL games prior to Tuesday night’s contest, Smith has picked up 2 assists. The goal came in his 17th game this season.

Nashville was out shot 29-26.

With the loss, the Predators are in 11th spot in the Western Conference, but only two points out of 8th place Los Angeles. A win tonight would have put Nashville in a tie for the final playoff spot in the Western Conference.

Nashville ends the month of November with a 6-5-2 record. Heading into December a year ago, the Predators had played 23 games and sported a 10-8-5 record for 25 points. This year, Nashville sits at 11-9-4 for 26 points on the season, having played one extra game.

Kyle Wilson was recalled on Tuesday, but was scratched. Brian McGrattan was in the lineup instead of Wilson but only played 4:58.

The Predators next play in Vancouver on Thursday night before heading back to Bridgestone Arena for 14 of the next 19 games. Nashville will hope to improve its home record. Before losing to Edmonton before embarking on their current five-game road trip, the Predators had gone 4-0-2 in their six previous games at Bridgestone Arena. Traditionally a strong team, the Predators have won 23 home games for six consecutive seasons, the only team in the NHL to have done so.