Tyler Johnson Announces Retirement from Professional Hockey
Tyler Johnson, a 34-year-old professional hockey player known for his impressive 13-year career in the NHL, has officially decided to hang up his skates. Announcing his retirement via social media on Monday, Johnson reflected on his journey, which included two Stanley Cup victories with the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Reflections on His Journey
In his heartfelt message, Johnson, who will turn 35 this July, shared how unlikely his path to professional hockey seemed due to his size—standing at just 5 feet 8 inches and weighing 191 pounds. He credited his family’s unwavering support, especially from his parents, Ken and Debbie, and his grandparents, for fostering his dreams during times of doubt.
“As a short kid from a small town, I saw my chances of playing in the NHL as very slim,”
he noted.
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, Johnson’s tenacity on the ice was evident as he navigated through various stages of competition. He won the Western Hockey League and the prestigious Memorial Cup in 2008 with the Spokane Chiefs, his local team. Following that success, he captured the Calder Cup with Norfolk in the AHL in 2012, before making his NHL debut in 2013. Over the years, he played in a combined 863 games in both regular season and playoffs, accumulating a remarkable 498 points.
Johnson was instrumental in the Lightning’s playoff runs, being a key player when the team reached the Stanley Cup Finals in 2015 and ultimately clinching championships in back-to-back seasons in 2020 and 2021.
Final Stages of His Career
After his time with the Lightning, Johnson concluded his playing career with stints at the Chicago Blackhawks and the Boston Bruins, having joined Boston early last season after a training camp tryout.
“After a lifetime devoted to hockey, I’m ready for what’s next,”
Johnson expressed in his retirement announcement.
“This moment is bittersweet, but I leave the game with no regrets.”
His legacy in the sport will surely be cherished by fans and players alike as he embarks on a new chapter in his life.
