Tyler Johnson Bids Farewell After 13 Remarkable NHL Seasons
So, here’s some big news for hockey fans—Tyler Johnson, the two-time Stanley Cup champion, has officially announced his retirement from the NHL after an incredible 13-season run. If you’ve followed the league over the past decade, you’ve likely seen his name pop up during some of the most intense playoff moments, especially during the Tampa Bay Lightning's championship runs in 2020 and 2021. And now, at nearly 35 years old, Johnson is stepping away from the game that’s defined so much of his life.
What makes his story even more inspiring is that Johnson wasn't even drafted. Yeah—he was signed by the Tampa Bay Lightning as an undrafted free agent back in 2011. Talk about beating the odds. At just 5-foot-8, coming from a small town, he admits the chances of making it to the NHL seemed almost impossible. But he credits his family—his parents, Ken and Debbie, and his grandparents—for believing in him when he had doubts. That belief clearly paid off.
Johnson made an immediate impact when he broke into the league. In his rookie season (2013-14), he racked up 50 points and was even a finalist for the Calder Trophy. The next year, he set career highs across the board—29 goals, 43 assists, and 72 points. He quickly became a key part of Tampa’s core, helping them reach the Cup Final in 2015 and ultimately lifting the trophy twice in back-to-back seasons.
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He didn’t stop at just NHL success either. Johnson won a Memorial Cup with the Spokane Chiefs back in 2008 and a Calder Cup with the Norfolk Admirals in 2012. So, winning has been part of his DNA at every level of the game.
In total, Johnson played 747 regular-season NHL games, scoring 193 goals and adding 240 assists. Add in another 116 playoff games with 65 points, and you’ve got a seriously respectable career. After his time in Tampa, he played three seasons in Chicago with the Blackhawks and wrapped things up with the Bruins, who signed him after a tryout last year.
His retirement statement, shared on Instagram, was heartfelt. He talked about the unforgettable moment when Steve Yzerman called to offer him a shot with Tampa. He didn’t know much about the city or the team, but something told him to say yes. That instinct turned out to be life-changing. Johnson said those years in Tampa were the best of his life, and he leaves the game with no regrets—just gratitude.
Now, he’s ready for the next chapter. He’s looking forward to starting a family and taking on new adventures beyond the rink. It’s definitely a bittersweet moment, but Johnson’s legacy is secure. From undrafted long shot to two-time Stanley Cup winner, his career is a testament to perseverance, heart, and undeniable talent.
So here’s to Tyler Johnson—thanks for the memories, the grit, and the goals.
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