Roman Josi's Value to Predators Cannot Be Overstated

Roman Josi is the Nashville Predators' most valuable player, and he has been for a long time.

Josi’s overtime winner against the Vegas Golden Knights on March 26 was his third deciding goal during Nashville’s 18-game point streak. He has 24 points (8 goals, 16 assists) since the franchise-record run began on Feb. 17.

"He's been phenomenal," Predators head coach Andrew Brunette. "In my opinion, he's the best defenseman in the league."

Related: Brunette Backs Josi as 'The World's Best Defenseman'

Josi leads all NHL defensemen in total goals this season (19). He also ranks sixth among league blueliners in assists (54) and third in total points (73).

Josi has recorded a point in 28 of his last 35 games entering his 900th career NHL game on March 28 at Arizona. Since the start of the calendar year, he leads the league in points (44) and even-strength points (30) by a defenseman; he's tied for first in assists (33) and game-winning goals (4); and he is second among NHL defenseman in goals (11).

“He’s been unbelievable,” Predators forward Filip Forsberg said. “Even at the start of season, maybe he didn't put up the numbers that everyone's used to him doing, but the way he's been playing all year for us has been awesome. And the way he is in the room is just so inspiring. We're lucky to have him for sure, and it's good that he should be in the [Hart Trophy] conversation and the Norris conversation. He could probably be in a couple more conversations too and nobody would argue.”

Indeed, Josi is finally getting recognition on the national stage. His overtime winner against Vegas catapulted him into third place in the Norris Trophy odds at +1900 .

“He's been phenomenal the whole stretch and pretty much all year,” Brunette said after the win over Vegas. “He just takes your team on his back and goes. And all the talk that he's getting is more than deserved. I’ve said this a few times, but I think we kind of get spoiled with him and we take him for granted. And nights like tonight remind you that you shouldn't take him for granted.”

Related: Josi Pushing Into Norris Trophy Finalist Territory

Josi last won the Norris Trophy in 2020 . While he may not realistically catch Quinn Hughes or Cale Makar in this year's race, his offensive prowess and exceptional playmaking in the defensive zone have certainly made him worthy of one of the three finalist spots.

When his team needs him the most, Josi always delivers. He may not win the Norris or the Hart this season, but few players have been more valuable to their teams this season than Josi has been to the Predators.