3 Potential Free-Agent Destinations for Tyler Johnson

The 2023-24 season is officially over as the Florida Panthers have hoisted the Stanley Cup. Free agency is around the corner and teams are starting to prepare their plan on who to go after once July 1 comes around. 

For today's free-agent tracker, we zone in on Tyler Johnson. The veteran forward spent the past two and a half seasons with the Chicago Blackhawks, where last year he posted 17 goals and 31 points in 67 games. Here's who could be interested in signing the versatile veteran:

Seattle Kraken

The Kraken are looking to re-tool up front and find some more secondary scoring, so Johnson could fit in nicely. He won't cost a ton compared to some of the high-end free agents and having the ability to play anywhere in the lineup should certainly spark Seattle's interest.

Buffalo Sabres

The Sabres are looking to take a jump forward in the Eastern Conference next year and will be looking to add some experience to their top-nine. Johnson has played a whopping 116 Stanley Cup Playoff games and knows what it takes to win when the games matter the most. The Sabres have over $23 million in cap space to work with and with Johnson hovering around the $3 million AAV mark, there's lots of room to make it work.

Detroit Red Wings

While the Wings would like to retain David Perron, the external interest could very well push Perron out the door. Leaving a hole on their right side and something Johnson could help address. He can play any forward position and Detroit needs some more versatility to their lineup so this could be a match to keep an eye on come July 1. Don't disregard Steve Yzerman's familiarity with Johnson from their days together in Tampa Bay. 

Photo credit: Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports