Veteran forward Tyler Johnson, a player who carved out a significant career despite not being selected in the NHL entry draft, has announced his retirement after 13 professional seasons. The Spokane, Washington native concludes his tenure having played 747 games and, perhaps most notably, securing two Stanley Cup championships.
Johnson entered the NHL at the age of 22, signing his initial contract with the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2012. His journey from an undrafted prospect to an integral part of an elite team is a testament to his perseverance and skill. He made his NHL debut during the 2012-13 season, quickly establishing himself as a valuable component of the Lightning roster.
His time with the Lightning defined the peak of his career. Johnson was part of the team that reached the Stanley Cup Final in 2015 and was a key contributor to the back-to-back championship squads in the 2019-20 and 2020-21 seasons. His speed, tenacity, and offensive instincts made him a difficult opponent, often punching above his five-foot-eight frame.
Reflecting on his time in Tampa Bay, Johnson stated that within the organization, he “found [his] place,” describing teammates who became brothers and the collective effort to win championships, carving their names into history. He emphasized that Tampa will forever hold a special place in his heart, a sentiment understandable given his pivotal role in the franchise`s most successful era.
During his tenure with the Lightning, Johnson signed a seven-year contract in July 2017, solidifying his importance to the team at the time. He ranks eighth in the franchise`s history with 161 goals, a significant achievement for any player, particularly one who arrived via the undrafted route.
Later in his career, Johnson faced challenges, including managing injuries that sometimes limited his games played per season. After his impactful years in Tampa, he was traded to the Chicago Blackhawks in July 2021, where he spent three seasons navigating a different team dynamic. His professional journey included a brief, nine-game stint with the Boston Bruins in November 2024 before the sides mutually agreed to terminate his contract, leading to this retirement decision.
Looking ahead, Johnson shared his excitement about shifting focus to family and exploring new opportunities beyond the rink. While acknowledging the moment is “bittersweet,” he expressed leaving the game without regrets, filled with gratitude for the rinks he played on, the teammates he battled alongside, the fans who supported him, and for hockey itself, which he stated will always ignite his soul.
His career, marked by defying expectations, achieving ultimate team success, and navigating the later-career realities of professional sports, concludes with a clear message of gratitude and a focus on the future.
