Fisher Practices with Preds as Comeback Bid Continues

P.K. Subban joked if it was up to him, he would insert Mike Fisher back into the Predators' lineup immediately.
Of course, Subban isn't the one making those decisions, and as far as Fisher is concerned with his conditioning, he's probably relieved that's not the case.
However, after participating in Monday's practice at Bridgestone Arena with his Preds teammates - the first time he's done so since announcing his intention two weeks ago to come back and play for the team - Fisher said he is surprising himself just a bit when it comes to getting back into game shape.

"I actually feel better than I thought I would at this point," Fisher said. "I just need to keep taking time and get some good practices in. Ten days isn't a lot when you haven't skated in a while, but I'm definitely happy the way I'm feeling at this point, probably better than I expected."
Fisher took line rushes and participated fully in drills throughout the 45-minute session, just another step toward eventually signing a contract and joining the Predators in a game for the first time since June.

There is still no timetable on Fisher's return to the lineup - as has been the case from day one of the process - and the team's current play that sees them tops in the Central Division certainly plays a role.
"We knew coming in that there was never going to be pressure on him to play," Predators Head Coach Peter Laviolette said of Fisher's comeback. "We didn't need him to get ready as quick as he can because [we're desperate] - that was the positive of it. Our team's in a good spot, guys are doing their job, but this just puts another piece in place for what you hope is going to be a long spring."
"The team is playing so great," Fisher said. "We have really good depth. Hopefully we stay healthy, and then I just try to keep working and play catch up and do the best I can to get in there. When that is, we'll see, but the guys are playing great."
Fisher admitted it did feel strange for the first few minutes of practice, simply because he has barely skated over the last eight months, and certainly not with other participants zooming around him. But as the time ticked by, it all began to come back, a sense of normal he felt for the past 17 seasons.
"Everything kind of comes back quick as far as drills and fitting in and all that stuff, but I've still got to keep skating and make sure I can get in good shape. But [practicing is] a good step.

"At this point in the season, these guys are playing so many games, so it's a good pace and it's good to get out there and do some real drills. But I've still got some work to do for sure."
As Predators General Manager David Poile stated during Fisher's introductory press conference, the plan is to have him signed to a deal by the Feb. 26 trade deadline and then put him into the lineup once he feels comfortable.
Sure, there still may be a few weeks to go, but before long, Fisher's No. 12 will be showing up on the roster list. And Monday's events mean that return is one day closer.
"It definitely beats skating by yourself," Fisher said. "It felt good to get back out there today."