Defenseman Jack Johnson may have had his season come to a close following a sports hernia surgery Friday. TSN’s Darren Dreger tweeted the news Saturday afternoon saying the New York Rangers defenseman successfully underwent the procedure and would be in recovery until June/July. This effectively puts an end to his season, unless the Rangers make a huge playoff run. Even then, it might not guarantee he is back.
Jack Johnson had successful sports hernia related surgery yesterday. Expectation is he will make a full recovery by June/July.
— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) March 20, 2021
Jack Johnson Out
The 34-year-old appeared in 13 games for the Rangers, contributing just one goal on the season. He was placed on waivers on March 14 before joining the Rangers taxi squad on the 16th. Johnson was signed as a depth role anyways. However, losing anyone is never ideal.
Johnson joined the Rangers this off-season after being bought-out and clearing waivers with the Pittsburgh Penguins. He signed a five-year, $16.25 million ( $3.25M AAV) deal with the Penguins. The buy-out was a move well received by Penguins fans who grew tired of the defenseman’s lack of ability in the short stint he had in Pittsburgh. He signed his one-year, $1.15 million deal with the Rangers on October 9. Since then, he has been a piece that you know what to expect from on the Ranger blueline. At this point, you can’t ask Johnson to do too much or you will be disappointed.
Going Forward
Overall, this shouldn’t be a massive loss for the Rangers. Off the ice, it may have a harder impact, as they could miss his personality in the room. However, on the ice, the team should be able to make up for this loss. Hopefully, Johnson can have a quick and successful recovery so he can find work again next offseason. Whether that be with the Rangers or another club around the league.
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For now, New York looks to keep on pushing into a playoff spot in a very tight division.
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