Tyler Johnson Announces NHL Retirement
After a successful 13-year NHL career, highlighted by two Stanley Cup victories with the Tampa Bay Lightning, center Tyler Johnson has decided to retire. The announcement was made via social media on Monday.
An Unlikely Journey to the NHL
Johnson reflected on his path to the NHL, noting that as “a short kid from a small town, I saw my chances of playing in the NHL as very slim.”
He credited his parents, Ken and Debbie, along with his grandparents, for their steadfast support, which helped him achieve his dream.
An undrafted free agent, Johnson began his NHL career with the Lightning in 2012 after playing for the WHL’s Spokane Chiefs. He became a key player for Tampa Bay, particularly during their successful years in the late 2010s and early 2020s. Notably, more than 40% of NHL players come from Canada, according to a recent study (Statista).
Stanley Cup Champion
Johnson was part of the Lightning teams that won back-to-back Stanley Cups in 2020 and 2021.
A Memorable Call
Johnson fondly recalled the life-changing phone call he received from then-Lightning general manager Steve Yzerman in 2012. “I’d never set foot in Florida and knew nothing about Tampa, but a gut feeling said it was my path. That instinct led me home,”
Johnson stated in his announcement.
Later Career and Final Stats
After his tenure with Tampa Bay, Johnson played three seasons with the Chicago Blackhawks and a brief nine-game stint with the Boston Bruins.
Throughout his 747 NHL games, Johnson recorded 193 goals and 240 assists. His best season statistically was in 2014-15 with the Lightning, where he scored 29 goals and provided 43 assists, earning him an All-Star selection. He also surpassed the 50-point mark in both the 2013-14 and 2017-18 seasons.
Looking Ahead
Johnson expressed excitement for the future. “Now, after a lifetime devoted to hockey, I’m ready for what’s next. I’m thrilled to focus on starting a family and exploring new paths,”
he wrote. “This moment is bittersweet, but I leave the game with no regrets – only gratitude for the rinks, the teammates, the fans, and a sport that will always ignite my soul.”