With our focus remaining largely on forwards so far, the trend continues with our next player grade. This time, it's the player who the Chicago Blackhawks acquired for Brent Seabrook's LTIR dollars. Tyler Johnson will likely depart to free agency after three injury-riddled seasons in Chicago, but he found a way to become a favorite to some in the fan base.
Johnson is 33 years old, meaning his next career move is likely to a contender. With that in mind, the veteran could bring some quality depth scoring to a good team assuming he can stay on the ice.
Story of the Season
Johnson suited up for 67 games in 2023-24, his most in a single season with the Blackhawks and most since 2018-19 when he played 80 games with the Tampa Bay Lightning. Despite notching his highest game total with the Hawks, he didn't eclipse his 2022-23 scoring totals. Narrowly missing that number (32 vs. 31 points), Johnson still had a productive scoring season.
Johnson tallied 17 goals and 14 assists this past season. His 17 goals were also a season-high for Johnson since the aforementioned 2018-19 campaign. Although the Blackhawks had issues scoring, Johnson's 17 goals were tied for fourth on the team with Nick Foligno.
Despite the solid season, Johnson was largely an afterthought not only in 2023-24 but in his Blackhawks career. In three seasons, Johnson suited up for 26, 56, and 67 games, missing tons of time due to injuries. That said, he certainly boosted his stock at the right time as he hits the free-agent market looking for a contender to join.
Grades
Jonnie Nonnie's Grade: B-
HEEEEEEERE'S JOHNNY! If you expected prime Tampa Bay Lightning Tyler Johnson on the Blackhawks, you set yourself up for disappointment. Johnson doesn't have the same offensive flare he showcased with the Bolts, but he still racked up 31 points for the Blackhawks this past season.
It's tough to be on an expiring contract knowing you're on the downturn of your career, but Johnson handled his time in Chicago with consummate professionalism. Stick taps to you, Mr. Johnson, and best of luck in your future endeavors.
Tony Marchese's Grade: B-
What you see is what you get from Tyler Johnson at this point in his career. Appearing in 67 games, the veteran forward tallied 31 points with 17 goals, the most he's scored since the 2018-19 season. Johnson wasn't and isn't expected to be a long-term piece in the Hawks rebuild, but he played his role well in his time here. An uptick in goals for Johnson this year earns him a B-, but everything else in his game was rather average at best.
Ron Luce's Grade: C+
Unlike my co-hosts, I'm a little more down on Johnson than most. I loved the player, loved what he brought in his time with Chicago, and loved what he brought in a bad season for the team from a leadership and scoring perspective. However, availability is the best ability and he wasn't often available. Missing 15 games this season was his lowest number as a Hawk, but as a result, I build off my co-hosts and dock him down a notch. Best of luck to TJ in free agency.
What's On Tap Next?
Tyler Johnson will not be back in Chicago this fall. However, the veteran is likely going to join a contender as a depth scorer and maybe have a shot at another Stanley Cup before he hangs them up. As a Blackhawk, Johnson was a shell of himself, but the former undrafted free agent has had a hell of a career for a player who had the odds against him.
Tell us if you agree with our grades! What would you give Tyler Johnson? Let us know at @FourFeathersPod on X and Instagram!
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