Roman Josi: A Top Contender in NHL 25
As the excitement builds for the release of NHL 25, EA Sports has unveiled its rankings for the top players at various positions. Among these, Roman Josi stands out as the highest-ranked player from the Nashville Predators, securing the second spot among left defensemen in the league. This recognition is a testament to Josi’s exceptional skills and consistent performance over the years.
A Legacy of Excellence
There’s little debate about Josi’s rightful place in the top tier of NHL defensemen. His impressive track record includes finishing second in Norris Trophy voting not just once, but twice—in the 2021-22 and 2022-23 seasons. This accolade is particularly significant, as it highlights his status as one of the elite defensemen in the league. It’s worth noting that the overall ratings for players often consider performances from previous seasons, which further solidifies Josi’s high ranking.
Consistent Recognition
Josi is not just a one-time contender for the Norris Trophy; he is a former winner and has received votes for the league’s best defenseman in nine of the last ten seasons. The only year he missed out on receiving votes was in 2022-23, despite an impressive season where he scored 18 goals and tallied 59 points in just 67 games. With a full season ahead, it’s reasonable to expect that Josi will once again be in the conversation for the Norris Trophy, especially given his track record.
The Ratings Breakdown
In the latest NHL 25 ratings, Josi is the only defenseman to achieve a 93 overall rating, placing him just behind Quinn Hughes, the reigning Norris Trophy winner, who boasts a 94 overall rating. Following closely behind Josi are Miro Heiskanen and Victor Hedman, both rated at 92. This ranking underscores Josi’s elite status in a competitive field of defensemen.
A Workhorse on the Ice
Josi’s performance on the ice is nothing short of remarkable. He has averaged over 24 minutes of ice time per game for an impressive 11 consecutive seasons. Last season, he recorded his second point-per-game season, scoring 23 goals and accumulating 85 points in 82 games. This level of productivity at 33 years old is a testament to his dedication and skill, and it raises the question of how much longer he can maintain this high level of play.
Versatility and Leadership
As the captain of the Predators, Josi plays a pivotal role in both offensive and defensive situations. He is a key player on the power play and also contributes on the penalty kill, showcasing his versatility. With the Predators making significant improvements to their roster, there’s a strong possibility that Josi will continue to thrive and perhaps even elevate his game further this season.
Recent Developments in Predators News
In addition to Josi’s impressive ranking, there are several other noteworthy stories emerging from the Nashville Predators camp. For instance, Spencer Stastney has been absent from training camp for personal reasons, raising questions about his status for the upcoming season. Meanwhile, Filip Forsberg has sparked debate among fans and analysts alike, as many believe he has been unjustly rated outside the top five left wings in NHL 25.
Additionally, there are intriguing storylines to follow as the Predators prepare for the season, including discussions around Juuse Saros, who has received a questionable rating in the latest game. These narratives add layers of excitement and anticipation as fans gear up for the new NHL season.
The Road Ahead
With NHL 25 on the horizon and Roman Josi leading the charge for the Nashville Predators, fans can look forward to an exhilarating season filled with high-stakes hockey and the potential for individual accolades. Josi’s continued excellence on the ice not only elevates his own game but also inspires those around him, making him a player to watch as the season unfolds.