The Chicago Blackhawks have acquired forward Tyler Johnson and a 2023 second-round pick from the Tampa Bay Lightning in exchange for the contract of defenceman Brent Seabrook, who ended his career in March due to injury, the team announced Tuesday.
Seabrook, who said he was unable to continue playing due to a lingering right hip issue, has three years remaining on an eight-year, $55-million contract and will likely be placed on the long-term injured reserve in Tampa.
Johnson, once a star in Tampa, has seen his ice time and numbers progressively decline over the past few seasons with the Lightning. The 30-year-old put up 22 points in 55 games in 2020-21, adding seven points in 23 post-season contests as the Lightning repeated as Stanley Cup champions.
“Tyler Johnson adds a large amount of skill and depth to our offence. His versatility across the lineup, two-way play and championship experience throughout his career make our lineup stronger,” said Blackhawks general manager Stan Bowman in a press release.
“We look forward to watching the immediate impact he will have on our team.”
Johnson’s best season came in 2014-15 when he appeared in the NHL All-Star Game and racked up a career-best 72 points in 77 games.
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