It is amazing to see that the top star adapted to wearing black and gold really quickly. The 12-year NHL professional has been a major player for the Tampa Bay Lightning, the two-time Stanley Cup champions, and a bitter rival of the Boston Bruins for many years. But this is today, and that was then.
As part of a player tryout agreement (PTO), the adaptable 5-foot-8, 185-pound forward is now auditioning for his former rivals on the other side of the rink. He spent his first full day of training camp at Warrior Arena in high spirits. However, he acknowledges that when he put on a Bruins practice jersey for the first time, he looked twice.
“I’m excited to be here,” said the 34-year-old. “I’ve played a lot of important games against this team, including some tough playoff series and regular-season battles. I used to dislike Boston, but now it’s going to be fun to play in front of the home crowd.”
He spent the past three seasons with the Chicago Blackhawks, where he recorded 17 goals and 31 points in 67 games, finishing fifth in team scoring. As a free agent, he received multiple offers over the summer, but when the Bruins reached out, it felt like the perfect match.
“I’ve always heard great things about this organization,” he shared. “It’s exceeded my expectations—the culture is incredible. Guys around the league always talk about Boston’s approach and atmosphere. It’s not just talk—everyone’s been welcoming since I arrived, and the environment is really positive. It’s been a great experience so far.”
On Thursday, Johnson lined up at left wing alongside center Charlie Coyle and rookie Fabian Lysell. Though he hadn’t officially met Lysell before, the two quickly connected on the ice, despite Coyle’s light-hearted annoyance.
“Lysell’s a very skilled player,” Johnson said. “We’re working on building chemistry. He had a lot of questions, and I answered some. Charlie might’ve been a little frustrated, but we’re just trying to improve together.”
Lysell enjoyed the chance to skate with the veterans, saying, “It was fun playing with those guys—they’re creative and really fast.”
A versatile forward able to play all three positions, Johnson has logged 738 NHL games with Chicago and Tampa Bay, notching 193 goals and 431 points, with a plus-20 rating. He’s also experienced in the playoffs, with 32 goals and 65 points in 116 postseason appearances.
Determined to make an impact in Boston, Johnson is focused on securing his spot. “Throughout my career, I’ve always had to compete. If you stop, someone else takes your place. I’m just giving my best and letting things unfold.”
Originally from Spokane, Washington, Johnson signed with Tampa Bay in 2011 and was part of the “Triplets Line” with Ondrej Palat and Nikita Kucherov, helping the team win consecutive Stanley Cups in 2020 and 2021.
Johnson’s addition was a key move by Bruins GM Don Sweeney, replacing Danton Heinen, who signed with Vancouver. Unlike Heinen, Johnson is known for his offensive firepower, having scored over 20 goals in four seasons, including a career-high 29 in 2018-19. He’s still capable of producing 40+ points over a full season.
As a right-handed shooter who can play both left wing and center, Johnson offers versatility in the Bruins’ lineup. His veteran presence could also provide a calming influence on the rookies, much like his mentorship of Connor Bedard in Chicago. Johnson also adds value on the power play, where he scored eight goals and 16 points last season.
Bruins coach Jim Montgomery praised Johnson’s subtle yet effective play style. “He made some great support plays today, and he’s already picking up our defensive systems, which is impressive. His hockey IQ allows him to adapt quickly, and that’s why he’s had such a long career.”
Meanwhile, Lysell, the Bruins’ 2021 first-round pick, has made significant progress in the AHL, increasing his output from 14 goals and 27 points in his first season to 15 goals and 50 points in 56 games last year.
“He’s visibly stronger,” Montgomery said of Lysell. “He’s battling for the puck more, and that’s what we want—he’s an offensively gifted player, and we need the puck on his stick.”
As for Johnson, his focus is clear: earn his spot and help the team chase a championship. “I want to prove that I can contribute and be part of something special, especially with a team like this that’s aiming for a title. That’s where my focus is right now.”
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