NHL: Nino Niederreiter and Roman Josi, scorers with contrasting emotions

The only two Swiss lined up on the night of Tuesday to Wednesday, in the regular season of the NHL championship, sweated on the same playing area, did not wear the same jersey and blackened the score sheet.

At the Canada Life Center in Winnipeg, the Jets of Grisons winger Nino Niederreiter (32 years old) beat the Nashville Predators of Bernese defender Roman Josi (34 years old), a result which reflects the gulf that has separated the two organizations since the start of the 2024/2025 campaign (5-2). The team coached by Andrew Brunette quickly abandoned its illusions in Manitoba since it was trailing 2-0 (two goals allowed in 16 seconds) after 7 minutes, then 3-0 at the end of the first period.

In this less than exciting context, Josi nevertheless found the resources to embellish his record. He lit the lamp an eighth time since the start of the exercise, a first since November 29, 2024, thus putting an end to a streak of twelve games without a goal, also scoring the 100th seasonal goal for his colors. The captain of the Tennessee club, who skated for 28’51” (neutral differential), was also credited with an assist.

Nino Niederreiter sealed the score with an empty net in the 58th minute. The Swiss international returned a +2 card during the 11’32” of playing time given to him by his coach Scott Arniel.

In the Western Conference standings, Winnipeg is in 2nd position with a nest egg of 58 points amassed in 42 outings. As for Nashville, it is 14th (out of 16) with a collection of 33 units in 41 games, 12 points from the last play-off seat.