The Bruins struck gold over the weekend by signing veteran forward Tyler Johnson to a Professional Tryout Agreement (PTO).
Johnson, a two-time Stanley Cup champion at 34, spent the past three seasons with the Chicago Blackhawks, where he scored 17 goals, 14 assists, and 31 points in 67 games last season, finishing fifth in team scoring. The 5-foot-8, 185-pound forward is known for his versatility, able to play all three forward positions with ease.
A proven goal scorer, Johnson has appeared in 738 NHL games with Chicago and Tampa Bay, amassing 193 goals, 238 assists, and 431 points, along with a plus-20 rating. He also brings considerable playoff experience, with 32 goals and 65 points in 116 career Stanley Cup playoff games.
Originally from Spokane, Washington, Johnson was signed by the Tampa Bay Lightning as a free agent in 2011. He was a key member of the famous “Triplets Line” with Ondrej Palat and Nikita Kucherov, helping the team secure back-to-back Stanley Cup titles in 2020 and 2021.
On paper, the addition of Johnson appears to be a brilliant move by Bruins General Manager Don Sweeney, bringing in a proven, impactful player at a reasonable cost.
This signing also gives Bruins coach Jim Montgomery a range of intriguing options as training camp approaches.
In replacing Danton Heinen, who departed to Vancouver as a free agent, Johnson brings more of an offensive edge. He has surpassed the 20-goal mark four times in his career, including a career-high 29 goals in 2018-19, and is still capable of producing over 40 points in a full NHL season.
As a right-handed shot who can play left wing or center, Johnson offers flexibility across the Bruins lineup.
He seems like a perfect fit for the Bruins‘ checking line, potentially skating alongside sophomore center Matthew Poitras and Trent Frederic. His veteran presence could provide valuable guidance to Poitras, much like he did with Conor Bedard in Chicago last season. Johnson could also step in as a center if Poitras needs more time to develop.
Given his versatility, Johnson could also shift to his off-wing to fill the gap left by Jake DeBrusk. However, competition is fierce for the second-line right wing spot, with rookie Fabian Lysell, veteran Morgan Geekie, and big forward Justin Brazeau also vying for the role.
Johnson’s power play skills, highlighted by eight goals and 16 points on the man advantage last season, would be a significant boost to a Bruins team always looking for more firepower.
