Predators' Mike Fisher could return for Game 1 of Stanley Cup Final
Adam Vingan
Predators captain Mike Fisher, who missed the team's past two playoff games, could return in Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final on Monday.
"I think there's a real good chance of that," Predators general manager David Poile said Wednesday. "I'm pretty sure you'll see him on the ice (Thursday during practice at Centennial Sportsplex). ... I'm optimistic that he will be available."
Fisher suffered an apparent head injury during Game 4 of the Western Conference finals against the Anaheim Ducks last week. He appeared dazed by an inadvertent knee to the side of the head from Ducks defenseman Josh Manson.
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The Predators have not disclosed the nature of Fisher's injury. Players had Tuesday and Wednesday off from on-ice activities.
Poile expressed similar optimism regarding forward Craig Smith, who sat out the entire series against the Ducks because of a lower-body injury. He has played one game in the past two rounds but has been a regular participant during practices and morning skates.
Nashville will be without center Ryan Johansen for the remainder of the playoffs. He underwent emergency surgery to treat acute compartment syndrome, an injury suffered in the same game as Fisher's.
The Predators will face either the Pittsburgh Penguins or Ottawa Senators in the Stanley Cup Final. Their opponent will be determined Thursday in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference finals (7 p.m., NBC SN).
Reach Adam Vingan at avingan@tennessean.com and on Twitter @AdamVingan.
STANLEY CUP FINAL
PREDATORS vs. PENGUINS/SENATORS
Times TBA, all games broadcast on 102.5-FM
May 29: at Pittsburgh/Ottawa (NBC)
May 31: at Pittsburgh/Ottawa (NBC SN)
June 3: at Nashville (NBC SN)
June 5: at Nashville (NBC)
x — June 8: at Pittsburgh/Ottawa (NBC)
x — June 11: at Nashville (NBC)
x — June 14: at Pittsburgh/Ottawa (NBC)
x — if necessary