Johnson, 21, has posted 1 goal and 2 assists in eight games with Columbus this season, with an average ice time of 12:49. After his struggles, he was demoted to the AHL. The stint in the minors proved beneficial for Johnson. During his time with the Monsters, Johnson showcased significant improvement, tallying five goals and 15 points in 10 games.
Given the Columbus Blue Jackets' current scoring challenges, ranked 24th in the NHL, Johnson is anticipated to assume a top-nine role for the team. Moreover, there are expectations for him to transition into a top-six forward position in the near future.
The Port Moody, British Columbia native was the Blue Jackets' top pick, fifth overall, in the 2021 NHL Draft, and he played two seasons at the University of Michigan before making his NHL debut at the end of the 2021-22 campaign.
