With NHL free agency now being over three weeks old, Chicago Blackhawks forward Tyler Johnson from 2023-24 remains unsigned. After the Blackhawks season ended, Johnson made it clear that he would not be re-signing with the Blackhawks. Johnson cited that he wanted to return to “playing meaningful hockey” and get the change to play on a contender. However, Johnson is yet to sign with any team deep into free agency.
Tyler Johnson’s Trade to the Blackhawks
In 2021, the Blackhawks acquired Johnson from the Tampa Bay Lightning in a trade. Johnson had spent the past nine seasons in Tampa, winning two Stanley Cups in the process. Tampa moved Tyler Johnson in a salary dump and acquired Brent Seabrook’s LTIR contract in the process. Tyler Johnson played out the final three seasons of his seven-year contract with Chicago at a cap hit of $5,000,000 per season.
Johnson has struggled with injuries since his arrival in Chicago, dealing with a foot injury for a chunk of 2023-2024. Johnson played in only 82 games in his first two seasons in Chicago. Despite injuries, he still managed to record solid numbers and play a top six role for the Hawks. Johnson recorded 31 points in 67 games last season.
What’s Next for Johnson?
This is not the offseason Johnson likely envisioned when he made it clear he would be leaving the Blackhawks. Johnson clearly wanted the chance to win again, and it’s hard to blame him for that. Johnson went from winning back to back Stanley Cups in Tampa Bay to joining a rebuilding Blackhawks squad. That being said, Johnson might sacrifice his desire to join a contender to keep playing in the NHL.
At this point in the offseason, many contenders have made their major signings. Most contenders are already nearing the cap ceiling or have full rosters. 121 contracts were signed on day one of NHL free agency alone. This means that Johnson was clearly not looked at as a prized free agent. Johnson is a solid player who can play middle six minuets, but is nowhere near the player he once was.
Johnson might have to join a bad team with the chance of being traded at the trade deadline. He could also join a contender and fight for a spot in camp. Either way, Johnson won’t be getting anything more than a one-year deal with any team. At 33, Johnson has proven he can’t be depended on to stay healthy, and it’s hard to see his health improving with age.
Could a Return to the Blackhawks Be in Order?
With Johnson not having many options left, could a return to a hopefully improved Blackhawks team be in order? Most likely not, no. That ship likely sailed when Johnson finished his exit interview in April. The Blackhawks made lots of moves this offseason and are already struggling to find roles for everyone on their forward core.
Adding Johnson back into the mix would only complicate things more. Johnson would need to compete for a spot on the roster in camp with the likes of Joey Anderson, Craig Smith, and Pat Maroon. It might be best for the Hawks to go another direction with the group they have now than to add more.
Johnson spoke a big game about going back to a playoff contender, now that same talk is hurting him. Johnson quickly ridiculed the Blackhawks but now might find himself right back in the same situation he just left. It’s unknown what Johnson’s situation will be like come the regular season but right now it doesn’t look too promising for him.
Main photo credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
