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Fisher returns to Preds practice, but still not cleared

Anaheim Ducks v Nashville Predators - Game Three

NASHVILLE, TN - MAY 16: Mike Fisher #12 of the Nashville Predators skates in on John Gibson #36 of the Anaheim Ducks in Game Three of the Western Conference Final during the 2017 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs at the Bridgestone Arena on May 16, 2017 in Nashville, Tennessee. The Predators defeated the Ducks 2-1. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

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Given the injuries Nashville’s sustained at center this postseason, Mike Fisher’s presence at today’s practice was a welcome sight -- regardless of his availability for Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final.

“I feel pretty good,” Fisher told NHL.com after practicing for the first time since May 18. “I skated a few days here. Still not cleared, but it felt good to get out there with the guys.”

Fisher was knocked out of the Western Conference Final in Game 4, after taking a Josh Manson knee to the head. That, combined with the loss of Ryan Johansen to season-ending thigh surgery, whittled Nashville’s center depth down to Calle Jarnkrok, Colton Sissions, Vern Fiddler and Frederick Gaudreau.

Even though Fisher is pointless through 14 playoff games, his return would still be massive. In addition to serving as team captain, he was averaging just under 17 minutes per night prior to getting hurt, while winning 52 percent of his faceoffs.

He said his undisclosed injury feels “a lot better than it was a few days ago,” adding that his goal is to return for Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final on Monday.

Fisher took minimal contact at today’s skate, and worked on a line with James Neal and Harry Zolnierczyk.