Roman Josi Reaches Milestone: 1,000 NHL Games Played
A remarkable achievement in professional hockey unfolded on Thursday evening as Roman Josi surpassed 1,000 career games played in the National Hockey League. The veteran defenseman reached the milestone during a game between his Nashville Predators and the Ottawa Senators at Bridgestone Arena, becoming only the second player from Switzerland to accomplish this feat.
NHL.com/de has celebrated Josi’s career by compiling a list of his ten most memorable moments, highlighting a career built on dedication and skill.
A Late-Round Gem: Josi’s 2008 Draft
Josi’s journey to 1,000 games began at the 2008 NHL Draft in Ottawa, where the Nashville Predators selected him in the 2nd round with the 38th overall pick. At the time, few could have predicted the impact he would have on the franchise. One analyst noted that the pick was considered a gamble, but one that ultimately paid off handsomely.
Looking back at the draft class, Josi was selected after several other defensemen who were highly touted prospects. Drew Doughty (2nd overall, Los Angeles Kings), Zach Bogosian (3rd overall, Atlanta Thrashers), Alex Pietrangelo (4th overall, St. Louis Blues), and Luke Schenn (5th overall, Toronto Maple Leafs) were all chosen earlier. With the benefit of hindsight, it’s clear that Josi’s talent level suggested a higher draft position.
Adding a unique twist to Josi’s story is the fact that the first overall pick in 2008, Steven Stamkos (Tampa Bay Lightning), is now a teammate with the Predators. This pairing represents a testament to the enduring careers of two players drafted on the same day, who continue to compete at the highest level of the sport.
Josi’s ascent to 1,000 NHL games is a testament to his perseverance and skill, solidifying his place as a prominent figure in both Nashville Predators history and the broader landscape of international hockey.
