Tyler Johnson, a veteran of the NHL with 13 seasons and two Stanley Cup titles, has announced his retirement from professional hockey. The former Boston Bruins forward shared the news through an emotional Instagram post on Monday, expressing deep appreciation for the Bruins organization.
In his message, Johnson reflected on the significance of joining an Original Six team like the Bruins. He recounted his initial apprehension about playing against them during his early career and praised the rich history and commitment of the franchise. “Even in my short time there, I felt the fans’ passion, the staff’s professionalism, and the players’ camaraderie,” he stated.
Johnson joined the Bruins on a professional tryout agreement in August 2024 and made his debut two months later. He expressed a desire to be a part of a team with championship aspirations, highlighting the professionalism he observed from the start. “It really felt good. I just felt at home. I knew I wanted to be here,” he shared in November.
However, his tenure with the Bruins was brief; he was placed on unconditional waivers after just nine games, marking the end of his NHL playing career. Before his time in Boston, Johnson spent nine successful seasons with the Tampa Bay Lightning, where he celebrated two Stanley Cup victories, and three years with the Chicago Blackhawks.
Throughout his career, Johnson played 747 regular season games, achieving a total of 193 goals and 240 assists.
While this marks a poignant end to Johnson’s playing days, his contributions to the teams he played for, especially his accolades with Tampa Bay and his brief yet impactful time with Boston, will be remembered fondly by fans and teammates alike. His journey emphasizes resilience and the importance of being part of a team that aspires to greatness, an inspiring message for aspiring athletes.