The Lightning have re-signed center Tyler Johnson to a three year, $10 million contract today. The Calder Trophy finalist was to become a restricted free agent on July 1.
Johnson tied for the league lead in goals for rookies with 24 (a Lightning record) and finished third in rookie points with 50. (Photo/Susan Ferlita)
According to Erik Erlendsson of the Tampa Tribune, GM Steve Yzerman said:
“He had a very good first year and we are counting on him to be better. He got better as the year went on, there is still room to improve. … He’s got the skating ability and the skills and hockey sense and he’s committed to being a good overall player.’’
Johnson, playing number one center, was a force for Team USA at the IIHF World Championship, leading the team in goals with six. He was third in points with nine.
Steve Yzerman said of Johnson’s performance:
“He really asserted himself, his speed and scoring ability were really evident. The U.S. had a really talented and young team and it looked like Tyler was one of the guys who stepped up and was a real leader on that team. He did very well. A really good experience for him to get over there and play more hockey. I’m glad he went.’’
With the Johnson signing, one would think that the next of the 14 pending restricted free agents on the Bolts’ roster to be resigned would be Ondrej Palat.
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