The NHL lost one of its most quietly respected veterans on Monday, as Tyler Johnson officially announced his retirement — ending a remarkable 13-year career that began with no draft selection, but ended with two Stanley Cup rings and a lasting impression on every team he touched.
Johnson may not have become a household name in Chicago, but to those inside the Blackhawks organization — and the fans who followed through the tough years — he was something more: a steady presence, a consummate professional, and a link to championship pedigree during a difficult rebuild.
Before arriving in the Windy City, Johnson had already cemented his legacy in Tampa Bay. Signed as an undrafted free agent, the Spokane native defied all odds by earning a roster spot with the Lightning in the 2012-13 season.
From there, he blossomed into a top-line forward, registering 161 goals and 361 points across 589 games in Tampa. His peak came in the 2014-15 campaign, where he put up 72 points in 77 games, then dominated the playoffs with 13 goals and 23 points, leading the Lightning to the Stanley Cup Final — where they fell to none other than the Chicago Blackhawks.
Still, his playoff brilliance didn’t go unrewarded. Johnson would eventually become a two-time Stanley Cup champion with the Lightning, winning back-to-back titles in 2020 and 2021. But after the celebrations, cap constraints forced Tampa’s hand. Johnson was traded to Chicago in the 2021 offseason in exchange for Brent Seabrook’s contract and a second-round pick.
The Blackhawks weren’t in contention — far from it — but Johnson embraced his new role. Over the next three seasons, he played 149 games for Chicago, recording 32 goals and 38 assists (70 points). While the wins didn’t come often, Johnson offered something just as valuable: leadership, resilience, and a blueprint for what professionalism looks like on and off the ice.
In his retirement announcement, shared on social media, Johnson reflected on his journey and spoke directly to Blackhawks fans.
“Playing for an Original Six team, the Chicago Blackhawks, was a profound privilege,” he wrote. “Wearing the crest of hockey’s legends was humbling. My only regret is not bringing more success to Chicago’s passionate fans — you deserve it.”
For a player who was never supposed to make it, Johnson did more than most first-round picks ever dream of. He built a reputation through hard work and character, becoming a core part of one of the NHL’s greatest modern dynasties — and later, a trusted leader in a rebuilding locker room.
As general manager Kyle Davidson continues to reshape the Blackhawks through the NHL Draft, Johnson’s story serves as a lasting reminder that greatness can emerge from anywhere — even from the undrafted ranks.
Tyler Johnson leaves behind a legacy of quiet excellence, championship grit, and unwavering professionalism. His name may not hang from the rafters, but in locker rooms from Tampa to Chicago, his impact will not be forgotten.
Congratulations to Tyler Johnson on an unforgettable NHL journey.
