Nashville Predators Gear Up for Captain Roman Josi’s Historic 1,000th NHL Game
The Nashville Predators are set to host the Ottawa Senators on January 22, with captain Roman Josi preparing to skate in his 1,000th NHL game. The milestone comes as the Preds aim for redemption following a recent loss to the Buffalo Sabres.
A Milestone Worth Celebrating
Roman Josi’s 1,000th game is a testament to his dedication and longevity in the NHL. He will become the 84th player in NHL history to reach this milestone with the same franchise, joining an elite group of players. Josi, who has been with the Predators since the start of his career, reflects on the significance of the achievement:
"It’s crazy a number. It’s a pretty special day, and a good time to reflect a little bit. You think of the time you’ve been here, 15 years, and it’s pretty special to do it with this organization and the only team I played for."
Statistical Triumphs
Ahead of his 1,000th game, Josi holds impressive records for the franchise. He is the all-time leader in assists (554) and points (752), won the 2020 Norris Trophy, and has been named to the NHL’s First All-Star Team three times. As a Swiss-born player, Josi ranks first in goals, assists, and points among his compatriots in the NHL.
Lineup Adjustments and Key Players
The Predators have made several lineup adjustments ahead of the game. Winger Ozzy Wiesblatt has been activated from Injured Reserve after missing 21 games with an upper-body injury. Forward Reid Schaefer was reassigned to Milwaukee (AHL), while defenseman Adam Wilsby remains day-to-day with a lower-body injury. Forward Tyson Jost is the lone healthy scratch for the game.
Star Performances
Key players like Ryan O’Reilly and Filip Forsberg have been lighting up the scoreboard. O’Reilly leads the Preds with 47 points (18g-29a), while Forsberg has 19 goals and 39 points. Steven Stamkos, acquired mid-season, leads the club with 21 goals and 33 points. In net, Juuse Saros will start, aiming to bounce back from a recent loss.
Redemption on the Line
The Predators are eager to bounce back from their loss to the Buffalo Sabres, their first back-to-back defeat since before Thanksgiving. Winger Filip Forsberg emphasized the team’s resolve:
"We’re a great team in here, we just have to play like it. We can’t keep giving teams big leads. We’re a heck of a team when we play the way we did in the second and the third. We lost the game in the first period. Simple as that."
Head Coach’s Insights
Head Coach Andrew Brunette is optimistic about the team’s chances, noting one game-time decision regarding the lineup. The Predators will look to build on the effort they displayed in the second half of their recent game, aiming to start strong this time around.
The Opposition: Ottawa Senators
The Ottawa Senators will be a tough opponent, as the Preds seek to avenge their previous loss in Ottawa. The Senators have shown resilience and skill, making this matchup a crucial test for the Predators. The game is the second and final meeting between the two teams this season, with the Preds prevailing in their first encounter back in October.
Community and Fan Engagement
The Preds have a strong community presence, with events like Charity Nights and the Smashville GUIDER Helper Grants. Fans can participate in activities like Dex Score & Win and Tito’s Assist for a Cause, adding to the excitement surrounding the game. The Preds Foundation continues to support community initiatives, making the team a cornerstone of Nashville’s sports culture.
Final Thoughts
As the Nashville Predators prepare for Roman Josi’s historic 1,000th game, the team and fans alike are geared up for an electrifying night at Bridgestone Arena. With a mix of nostalgia, celebration, and high-stakes hockey, this game promises to be a memorable one for all involved.
