The Boston Bruins are in discussions to finalize a deal with former rival Tyler Johnson, aiming to strengthen their lineup ahead of the upcoming season. Johnson, once a key player for the Tampa Bay Lightning, faced off against the Bruins in numerous heated battles, particularly in the playoffs. Now, the veteran forward could bring his experience and skill to a team he once viewed as an adversary.
At 34, Johnson is currently attending Boston’s training camp on a professional tryout (PTO) contract, where he’s looking to prove he still has what it takes to compete at the NHL level. With nine seasons in Tampa Bay, two Stanley Cup championships, and a reputation as a dependable playmaker, Johnson offers valuable versatility—able to play both center and wing positions.
If the Bruins secure this deal, Johnson could provide a depth boost to the roster, competing with Boston’s young talents for a regular spot. Known for his high hockey IQ, leadership, and postseason experience, Johnson’s presence could offer a key advantage as Boston looks to build a balanced, competitive team for the season.
Though not guaranteed a contract, Johnson’s strong showing at camp could seal the deal, helping him transition from a former foe to a potential asset in Boston’s quest for success.
The 34-year-old forward, known for his playmaking skills, spent years at the center of intense matchups and playoff showdowns against Boston. But now, he’s traded his old disdain for the black-and-gold for a shot at joining the team.
“Played a lot of meaningful hockey against this team, a couple of good playoff series, and a lot of regular season games,” Johnson said Thursday. “I used to hate Boston, but it’s going to be fun playing in front of the home crowds instead.”
Currently skating on a professional tryout (PTO) contract, Johnson faces stiff competition for regular ice time this season. As a versatile forward capable of playing both center and wing, he’ll be vying for a starting role against Boston’s rising young stars, such as Matthew Poitras, Fabian Lysell, and Georgii Merkulov.
At 5-foot-8 and 185 pounds, Johnson doesn’t quite match the bulkier players added to the Bruins’ roster this offseason, but General Manager Don Sweeney believes Johnson’s experience and winning pedigree — including 116 playoff games and two Stanley Cups with Tampa — will be a valuable asset.
“Versatility, experience, winning pedigree, production. His skating is still there,” Sweeney said. “We’re excited to have him as part of our group. We identified early on that he could contribute in a meaningful way, even if we weren’t able to offer a full contract.”
The Bruins have a history of turning PTO signings into success stories, with Danton Heinen serving as the most recent example, having scored 17 goals and 36 points last season on a league-minimum contract.
Although Johnson’s best season came back in 2014-15 with 29 goals and 72 points in 77 games, the veteran has remained productive, tallying 63 points over his last two seasons (123 games) with the Chicago Blackhawks. This includes 17 goals in 67 games during the 2023-24 campaign.
Some of that production may have been due to regular power-play time (averaging 2:39 per game) on a rebuilding Chicago team, but Bruins head coach Jim Montgomery believes Johnson still has plenty to offer.
“He makes a lot of little, subtle support plays, which has been the strength of his whole career,” Montgomery said. “His hockey sense has allowed him to adapt quickly, and that’s why he’s played so long.”
Early in training camp, Johnson has primarily skated alongside Charlie Coyle and Fabian Lysell, indicating that the Bruins are keen to see what the veteran can contribute. His energy and versatility could prove valuable for a team relying on younger players to step up this season.
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