Selected 38th overall in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft, Roman Josi has established himself as a central figure in the Nashville Predators organization. Born in 1990 in Bern, Switzerland, he transitioned from a standout talent in the National League to becoming the first Swiss player to capture the James Norris Memorial Trophy as the NHL's premier defenseman.
Early Development in Switzerland
Josi grew up in an athletic household in Bern, the son of Doris and Peter Josi. He balanced soccer and ice hockey until committing fully to the latter at age ten. His professional path began with SC Bern, where he debuted during the 2006–07 season. By 2008, he was recognized as one of four 17-year-olds competing in the country's top division. His tenure with the club concluded on a high note in 2010 when he led all defensemen in scoring during the NLA playoffs, contributing to a Championship title for SC Bern.
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After signing a three-year entry-level contract with Nashville in May 2010, Josi moved to the organization's AHL affiliate, the Milwaukee Admirals. His debut season in North America was marked by a productive scoring streak in early 2011, which helped him finish the regular season with 30 points in 69 games. He successfully integrated into the Predators' NHL roster during the 2011–12 season, recording his first career NHL goal in a victory against the Anaheim Ducks in December 2011.
Professional Milestones and Records
Josi has consistently set new benchmarks for Swiss-born players in the NHL. In 2019–20, he earned the James Norris Memorial Trophy, becoming the first player in Predators history to achieve this recognition. By 2021, he surpassed Mark Streit as the highest-scoring Swiss-born NHL player. In March 2023, he reached the 600-point milestone in his 823rd game, positioning himself as the second-fastest active defenseman to reach that total. He also holds the distinction of being the second defenseman to lead an active NHL franchise in total points.
Fast facts
- Born: 1990, Bern, Switzerland
- Drafted: 38th overall, 2008 NHL Entry Draft
- Professional Debut: 2006–07 season, SC Bern
- NHL Team: Nashville Predators
- Major Individual Award: James Norris Memorial Trophy (2019–20)
- 600th NHL point: March 2023
Questions readers ask
Which team did Roman Josi play for in Switzerland?
He played for SC Bern from 2006 to 2010.
When did Josi join the Nashville Predators?
He signed an entry-level contract in May 2010 and joined the organization for the 2010–11 season.
Is Roman Josi the first Swiss player to win the James Norris Memorial Trophy?
Yes, he became the first Swiss player to win the award during the 2019–20 NHL season.
Achievements
- Represented Nashville Predators, SC Bern and Young-Sprinters Hockey Club
- Competed at 2014 Winter Olympics, 2019 IIHF World Championship and 2018 IIHF World Championship
- Discipline: ice hockey
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