Why Tyler Johnson PTO Makes Sense For Bruins Before Training Camp

Although some forms of communication offer many benefits – like texting – others do not. When the time comes for change to come about it should come from within rather than being dictated from without. “Why Tyler Johnson PTO Makes Sense for Bruins Before Training Camp originally appeared on NBC Sports BostonThe Boston Bruins are in desperate need of scoring depth on both wings, so it wasn’t shocking when the team announced last week it had signed veteran forward Tyler Johnson to a PTO (professional tryout agreement) ahead of training camp. While Johnson probably isn’t going to save their season (if even making the roster) you couldn’t do much worse at this point in offseason than signing two-time Stanley Cup Champion Johnson played two seasons with Chicago Blackhawks as rebuilders. Johnson registered 32 points (12 goals, 20 assists) over 56 games during 2022-23 and 31 points (17 goals, 14 assists) across 67 contests this past season. Johnson struggled mightily when it came to even-strength scoring (nine goals and six assists). But Johnson did perform admirably for the Blackhawks on their power play in 2023-24, posting 16 points (8 goals, 8 assists). Only David Pastrnak from Boston scored more power-play goals last season. All other Boston Bruins roster members had seven or fewer faceoff wins this past season, though he maintained above 50 percent win rates during each of the prior three years and an overall 50.3 win percentage over that four year span. Last season, Boston fell from being second in faceoff percentage to 21st, dropping three spots since 2016. John Johnson can play either center or on either wing – though more frequently down the middle than not. But his versatility allows for effective results no matter where his position falls within an offense’s structure. After losing Jake DeBrusk (19 goals), Danton Heinen (17 goals), and James van Riemsdyk (11). While Pastrnak and Marchand are both elite wingers, if either were sidelined for any length of time due to injury it could spell catastrophe at those positions for Boston. Johnson would likely make more sense at right wing where Boston is lacking currently. Of course, their ideal scenario would involve one of their young prospects like Georgii Merkulov or Fabian Lysell having an outstanding training camp performance and earning one of those precious opening night roster spots. Matthew Poitras’ return from injury and expansion on his impressive rookie campaign would also be ideal, although Boston cannot assume their young players will make that leap alone; therefore having someone like Johnson on board as insurance is essential in case something unexpected comes up that impacts performance in playoff games. Johnson would bring significant playoff experience. Johnson has played in 116 career postseason games for Tampa Bay Lightning and twice reached the Stanley Cup Final. Ultimately he won both 2019-20 and 20-21 Stanley Cup championships with them. This PTO contract should prove low risk to Boston Bruins. If it works out for them, Lysell, Merkulov or Poitras could add experienced versatility at a nominal cost – helpful with respect to staying under the salary cap this season. But even if it fails miserably it wouldn’t be too detrimental. And hopefully Lysell, Merkulov or Poitras perform very well in training camp making Johnson expendable! Training camp starts September 18th!