Tampa Bay Lightning: 50 Greatest Moments In Franchise History
By Kyle Barber
Nov 1, 2015; Raleigh, NC, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning forward Tyler Johnson (9) looks on during the game against the Carolina Hurricanes at PNC Arena. The Tampa Bay Lightning defeated the Carolina Hurricanes 4-3. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports
18. Tampa Bay Lightning Sign Tyler Johnson As Undrafted Free Agent
Date: March 2011
After being passed over by all 30 teams and going undrafted, Tyler Johnson signed a 3-year entry level contract in March of 2011.
During his rookie season, Johnson once again proved that size isn’t all that matters, as he finished with 50 points in 82 games, and was a nominee for the Calder trophy, which is given to the league’s best rookie.
The next year, Johnson continued to improve as he finished with 72 point and 77 games, and was selected to his first all-star game.
He is now one of the team’s most important players, and plays a type of game that when he is not in the lineup you miss the speed, scoring ability, and willingness to play a complete 200-foot game that make him one of the best young players in the NHL. Not bad for an undrafted free agent who everybody believed was too small to succeed in the NHL.
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