Furthermore Tyler Johnson, a member of the Tampa Bay Lightning team that won back-to-back Stanley Cups, has signed a one year contract with the Boston Bruins.
Johnson Contract: From Undrafted To Star
Johnson went undrafted before the Lightning took a chance on the forward. He had a breakout rookie season in the 2013-14 season. He scored 24 goals and established himself on the Lightning top line. Futhermore, Johnson was a candidate for the Calder Trophy for the league’s best rookie. Johnson would come up short as the award would go to Nathan MacKinnon.
Johnson would follow up his rookie season with 29 goals and his first All-Star selection in 2014-15. Futhermore, Johnson was a big contributor in the Lightning’s run to the 2015 Stanley Cup Final. Johnson has earned his contracts over the years. However, a wrist injury limited Johnson’s production. In a six-game loss to the Chicago Blackhawks, Johnson only had only one point.
Lightning Strikes Twice
Johnson would be part of the Lightning team that won back-to-back Stanley Cups in 2020 and 2021. Johnson became the first Spokane native to win the Stanley Cup.
Cap Restraints Sent Johnson to the Windy City
To combat cap restraints, the Lightning traded Johnson to the Chicago Blackhawks. After injuries (neck injury and a concussion) limited Johnson to just 26 games in 2021-22, Johnson bounced back the following two seasons. While Johnson’s numbers did not mirror the success he had in Tampa Bay, it is important to note the Blackhawks were in the beginning of a transition to a rebuild.
What The Johnson Contract Means For The Team
This Johnson contract is good for both sides. Johnson was a key part to the Lightning’s success of the 2010’s. At 33 years old, Johnson may be at the end of his prime years, but he can still help the Bruins move the needle. Johnson’s playoff experience will also be a big asset to the Bruins.
Johnson’s three years in Chicago may have been uneventful, but he can certainly still be a difference maker.