Former Nashville Predators captain Greg Johnson, one of the franchise’s original players, died Monday at his Michigan home, according to his former agent, Tom Laidlaw.

Johnson was 48. The cause of death was not provided.

“Greg was a big part of establishing the identity of the franchise,” said former Predators goalie Chris Mason.

Johnson retired in 2006 when a physical examination found an irregular heartbeat.

“Being captain in Nashville meant a lot to him,” Laidlaw said.

Laidlaw recalled that Johnson took less money to stay in Nashville because he cherished the role and the relationship he had with his teammates. According to Laidlaw, Johnson was criticized by the NHL Players Association behind the scenes for not pushing the Predators harder for a more lucrative contract. But he didn’t want to jeopardize his leadership role in a squabble over more money.

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“His whole family was like that – they were all highly principled,” Laidlaw said. “Greg had a code he followed as a player and he lived his life the same way.”

News of Johnson’s death began spreading among players and former teammates Monday. Johnson was known for his likability and the generosity of his friendship.

“It was the worst phone call I’ve received in a while,” Mason said. “He left an impression on me.”

Johnson was soft-spoken, not a fire-and-brimstone captain. Mason said Johnson took care of everyone on the team. When a player was brought up from the minors or acquired in a trade, Johnson made him feel welcome. He’d even help players move into their new house.

“He was one of the nicest guys I’ve ever met,” Mason said. “He was the kind of guy that Predators (officials) wanted their other players to be like on or off the ice.”

“The entire Nashville Predators organization is shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of Greg Johnson," the Predators said in a statement. "Greg was an original Predator, coming to us in the expansion draft and serving as the team’s second-ever team captain, and first Predators captain to lead the team to the Stanley Cup Playoffs. During his time in Nashville, he was a consummate professional and terrific teammate who was an integral part of our community and in developing the Predators culture that we experience today."

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 also played for the Pittsburgh Penguins and Chicago Blackhawks before playing his final seven seasons with the Predators. He finished with 145 goals and 369 points in 785 games, including a career-best 50 points in his first season in Nashville in 1998-99.

“He did everything well,” Mason said. “You put him on the power play, he’d find a way to be successful. Put him on the penalty kill, he’d be your best penalty killer. He was not the biggest players, but he’d go into the corners and outwork you.“

Laidlaw recalls that he wanted to defend Johnson’s contract decision to the NHLPA, and Johnson told him not to do it.

“He said, ‘It was my decision and I don’t have to answer for it,’ ” Laidlaw said. “He always did everything in a respectful manner.”

Johnson is survived by his wife, Kristin, and two daughters, Carson and Piper..

His brother, Ryan, was also among the league’s most respected role players.