It is always difficult to replace a quality player. Replacing two such players is near impossible. Yet, the Nashville Predators find themselves in a position that is rare, and that is replacing an entire line of forwards. They are replacing the entire second line.
But not just any forwards. The heart-and-soul of the team, Mike Fisher, has yet to decide on his return or to retire. Even if he returns, it is doubtful he would play on the second line. Furthermore, James Neal scored 99 points in the past two seasons with the Predators.