Swiss defenseman Roman Josi is coming back.
That was the news Nashville Predators fans woke up to on June 18, and it couldn’t have come at a better time. The team’s longtime captain, who missed the final stretch of the season, is now expected to return in time for training camp this fall.
Roman Josi Expected To Return as Predators Reveal Health Update
The Predators revealed that Josi had been diagnosed with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, commonly known as POTS, a complex circulatory condition. It was discovered late in the 2024-25 season after he’d already been dealing with a concussion. His last game came in February, when he was hit hard into the boards by Florida’s Sam Bennett.
It turns out, the hit was just part of the story.
A statement on #Preds Captain Roman Josi: pic.twitter.com/YxjGhmWRxn
— Nashville Predators (@PredsNHL) June 18, 2025
“He has been undergoing treatment since that diagnosis and is progressing exceptionally well,” said general manager Barry Trotz. “We’re confident he’ll be ready to go for the 2025–26 season.”
Fans rallied quickly on social media: “Prayers sent, captain! We love you 🙏🏻,” tweeted one fan.
Prayers sent, captain! We love you 🙏🏻
— 𝒴𝑒𝓁𝒾’𝓈 𝐵𝑜𝓃𝑔 (@yelichfans) June 18, 2025
Others chimed in with support: “From the other side truly much love Josi!”
Another user added, “Glad he is doing okay.”
Glad he is doing okay, prayers for his recovery
— Tyler Beauchesne (@SensfleckTy) June 18, 2025
In an interview with Swiss outlet Blick, Josi gave a rare glimpse into what he’s been going through.
“After the first week was quite a challenge due to the symptoms, the last few sessions have gone well,” he said. “I’ve regained the belief that I’ll be 100 percent fit again and be able to compete with Nashville and the Swiss national team next winter.”
Josi’s Health Brings Hope for Nashville’s Next Chapter
The 35-year-old has been a cornerstone for Nashville for more than a decade. He’s not just the face of the franchise but one of the league’s most productive defensemen.
Josi’s absence had left a massive hole. He played just 53 games this past season but still put up 38 points. Without him, the team lacked stability on the blue line and leadership off the ice.
In 962 games, he’s tallied 724 points. That includes 190 goals and 534 assists. He’s worn the “C” with pride and consistency, and the thought of him skating again brings obvious energy back to the team.
His return also comes with international implications. Just this week, he was named to Switzerland’s preliminary Olympic roster for 2026. If fully fit, he’ll represent his country at the Winter Games in Italy.
Olympic update: Switzerland’s preliminary roster is taking shape with the first 6 names announced.🇨🇭🔥#IIHF #Olympics #NHL #NHLPA @SwissIceHockey @olympics @nhl @nhlpa pic.twitter.com/QkAUsCGVOi
— IIHF (@IIHFHockey) June 16, 2025
Meanwhile, the Predators have been active off the ice. They traded for forward Erik Haula, sending defenseman Jeremy Hanzel and a fourth-round pick to the Devils. Haula’s no stranger to Nashville; this will be his second stint, and his 759 games of experience could prove valuable.
With the draft coming up, there’s movement ahead, but perhaps the biggest shift of all is Josi getting ready to lace up again. That alone could change the team’s outlook and locker room overnight.
