The Predators, who have a two-point lead on the Winnipeg Jets for first place in the Central Division, next play at the Jets on Tuesday (8 p.m. ET; TSN3, FS-TN, NHL.TV). Nashville general manager David Poile has said the Predators game against the Edmonton Oilers on Thursday is a likely return date for Fisher.
"I think this whole town felt the effects of him coming back and just the energy it brought to this city," Predators forward Ryan Johansen said. "It's not only in our room; we all love [Fisher]. Just the response from the whole city, it was pretty cool to see how everyone kind of erupted on social media and stuff. It's been a lot of fun seeing him back in the room and hanging around the guys, and it'll be even more fun to see him get that sweater back on."
Fisher announced his retirement in August, two months after Nashville lost to the Pittsburgh Penguins in the Stanley Cup Final.
He has 585 points (276 goals, 309 assists) in 1,088 NHL games in 17 seasons with the Ottawa Senators and Predators. He was Nashville captain last season and had 42 points (18 goals, 24 assists) in 72 regular-season games. He had four assists in the six-game Cup Final loss to the Penguins.
The Predators believe Fisher will bolster their center depth and give them options on special teams. He could fit in as a fourth-line center behind Johansen, Kyle Turris and Nick Bonino.
