Blackhawks Bottom Line: Tyler Johnson Seems Ready To Move On

Over the next month, Chicago Hockey Now will be profiling every Chicago Blackhawks player from the 2023-24 season. Today will be forward Tyler Johnson.

Tyler Johnson
Forward
Games Played: 67
(Goals – Assists – Points): 17-14-31
Contract Status: UFA

The Short View

The Chicago Blackhawks thought they would get a little bit more from two-time Stanley Cup Champion Tyler Johnson. He was very good with the Tampa Bay Lightning but things didn’t go as well for him in Chicago.

He was okay but they probably wouldn’t have made that trade again if given the chance. He probably feels the same way about coming to Chicago as they didn’t exactly surround him with tons of talent.

He went from being on a Stanley Cup contender to one of the worst teams in the league that had no chance of making the playoffs. That had to be a tough adjustment to make for a guy with that much pride.

“I’m obviously thankful for being here. I’ve met a lot of good people,” Johnson said at locker clean out. “But it wasn’t exactly what I had envisioned or wanted. It was way different. I met some really good people, made some really good friends that I’m going to have forever, so that’s been great.”

The Long View

Tyler Johnson is about to become an unrestricted free agent who is free to sign with any team in the league. Despite the bright future with Connor Bedard leading the way, the Chicago Blackhawks won’t be an option for him.

Johnson scored 17 goals on an atrocious Blackhawks team this season. If he were on a great team loaded with talent, he’d certainly have even more than that.

Expect that, along with having a chance to compete for the Cup, to go into his decision on who to sign with. He will bring a ton of skill and incredible winning experience with him which makes him valuable.

The Bottom Line for Tyler Johnson

Tyler Johnson has only played for two teams: the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Chicago Blackhawks. Now, he will likely explore other options available to him.

Johnson’s next contract will almost certainly be for less money and fewer years but he has already made a ton of money in his career. Now, it is on him to decide what is more important.

“I was talking with some of the guys the other day and just talking about playoffs just got me all ramped up,” Johnson said.  “That’s where it’s all at and that’s where I’ve always loved. I’ve always just wanted to be a part of that and when you’re not, especially the last three years here just doing what we’re doing’s been pretty tough. I always try to stay positive with everything but it really just kind of grinds for a bit and I’d definitely like to try to get back to that.”

Tyler Johnson earned this opportunity to explore his options. It will certainly be interesting to see where he ends up.