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Johnson may not be a game-changer—assuming he even makes the team—but having a two-time Stanley Cup champion at this stage of the offseason isn’t a bad option.

In the past two seasons with the rebuilding Chicago Blackhawks, Johnson accumulated 32 points (12 goals, 20 assists) in 56 games during 2022-23 and 31 points (17 goals, 14 assists) in 67 games the following season. His even-strength scoring (nine goals, six assists) last year was less impressive, but he excelled on the power play, earning 16 points (eight goals, eight assists) in 2023-24. Only David Pastrnak scored more power-play goals for the Bruins last season, with 12; everyone else had seven or fewer.

Although Johnson’s faceoff win percentage dropped to 44.4% last season, he had consistently been over 50% in the previous three years, with an overall win percentage of 50.3% during that period. The Bruins’ faceoff percentage fell to 21st last season, down from second place the year before.

Johnson can play both center and wing, though he is primarily a center. His versatility could be beneficial for the Bruins, who need additional scoring on the wing after losing Jake DeBrusk (19 goals), Danton Heinen (17 goals), and James van Riemsdyk (11 goals) in the offseason.

While Pastrnak and Brad Marchand are elite wingers, the Bruins would face significant challenges if either missed an extended period. Johnson, being a right shot, is better suited for the right wing, an area where the Bruins currently have some depth issues.

Ideally, one of the Bruins’ young prospects, like Georgii Merkulov or Fabian Lysell, would excel in training camp and secure a roster spot. Matthew Poitras returning from injury and continuing his strong performance from last season would also be ideal for Boston.

However, relying solely on these young players isn’t foolproof, so having a seasoned veteran like Johnson as a backup plan is valuable.

Additionally, Johnson brings playoff experience, with 116 career postseason games and three Stanley Cup Final appearances with the Lightning, winning the Cup in 2019-20 and 2020-21.

A PTO for Johnson is a low-risk strategy for the Bruins. If successful, they gain an experienced, versatile player at minimal cost, which is crucial given their likely tight salary cap situation. If it doesn’t work out, the impact is minor.

Ultimately, if Lysell, Merkulov, or Poitras perform well enough in camp, they could make Johnson an expendable asset.