The elite-level talent of Roman Josi has been long-shrouded by the small Nashville market and his former All-World linemate Shea Weber– context always keeping him just on the fringes of the recognition he deserves (having gained two-top five Norris nods and his first All-Star appearance this past season).
The 26-year-old notched a career-high 61-points this past season, putting him behind only Erik Karlsson, Brent Burns, and Kris Letang for scoring defensemen (if you’re making comparisons, that’s 10 points more than Subban). Josi has been the puck-carrying focal point of Laviolette’s defensive-activation scheme, which has nurtured the NHL’s highest scoring defense.
The Swiss skater has exploded the skates he was expected to fill of former Nashville defenseman Ryan Suter, and many believe he had surpassed Shea Weber in importance to the franchise before the former Captain’s departure. On that note- Josi’s name has been an immensely popular one amongst fans when discussing opinions on who should be the new Captain in Smashville.
Or, could the best player be one who changed the entire fortunes of the franchise?
Next: Story Continued: The Game Changer