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Kevin Allen of USA TODAY Sports reports on the teams that have made the most progress in the NHL free agency.
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Former Nashville Predator captain Greg Johnson, known for his affable and gentle demeanor, died Monday morning at his home in Michigan. He was 48 years old.
The Chronicle Journal of Thunder Bay, Ontario, Johnson's hometown, first reported the story. No cause of death has been provided.
Johnson, who was taken over by the Predators in the expansion project, was the captain of the team from 2002 to 2006, sharing the title with Brad Bombardir in 2003-04.
"Being a captain in Nashville was important to him," said Tom Laidlaw, his former agent.
Laidlaw recalled that Johnson needed less money to stay in Nashville because he loved the role and the relationship he had with his teammates. The agent said Johnson had been angry by the NHL Players Association for not having pushed the Predators harder to get more money. But he did not want to risk his role as leader in a wage quarrel.
Greg Johnson was taken over by the Nashville Predators in the extension project and was captain of the team from 2002 to 2006. (Photo: Mark Humphrey, AP)
"All his family was like that – they all had high principles," said Laidlaw. "Greg had a code that he had followed as a player and he lived his life the same way."
Laidlaw said that he wanted to defend Johnson for taking less money to stay, and Johnson told him not to do it.
"He said it was my decision and I do not have to answer for his decision," said Laidlaw. "He always did everything respectfully."
Johnson was drafted by the Philadelphia Flyers in the second round in 1989, though he never played for them and was traded to the Detroit Red Wings. After four years at the University of North Dakota and appearances with the Canadian National Team, he began his NHL career with the Red Wings in 1993-94.
He has also played for the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Chicago Blackhawks before playing his last seven seasons with the Predators. He scored 145 goals and 369 points in 785 games, including 50 points, his best career result, in his first season in Nashville in 1998-99.
Johnson is survived by a wife and two children.
His brother, Ryan, was also one of the most respected players in the league.
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