Marcus Johansson spent seven seasons in Washington. ©2019, Hickling Images

Signing Marcus Johansson gives Sabres scoring, playoff experience

In signing Marcus Johansson to a two-year, $9 million contract on Saturday, the Buffalo Sabres addressed a major need, adding a winger capable of filling a top-six role.

Johansson, 28, can also play center, so he offers the Sabres, who need help down the middle, versatility.

The Swede has played 90 NHL playoff games, more than any other Sabre. He just played 22 contests during the Boston Bruins’ run to the Stanley Cup final.

That was likely alluring to Jason Botterill. Since taking over as general manager two years ago, he has consistently added players with notable postseason experience.

The Sabres, of course, haven’t made the playoffs since 2011, the NHL’s longest streak.

After Botterill added four depth players when free agency opened Monday, he hinted more moves could be coming, saying the offseason lasts more than just a day.

Botterill made his first two additions this summer – defenseman Colin Miller and winger Jimmy Vesey – through trades.

Johansson, the 24th overall pick by the Washington Capitals in 2009, was one of the top free agents left on the market.

While Johansson has mostly played left wing throughout his career, he has spent some time at center.

The 6-foot-1, 205-pound Johansson has compiled 120 goals, 334 points and 84 penalty minutes in 588 career NHL contests. He spent seven seasons with the Capitals before they dished him to the New Jersey Devils in 2017.

Johansson scored 12 goals and 27 points in 48 games last season before the Devils dealt him to Boston, where he compiled one goal and three points in 10 regular-season outings. He scored four goals and 11 points during the playoffs.

He enjoyed a career season in 2016-17, scoring 24 goals and 58 points in 82 games. He also scored 20 goals in 2014-15.

According to capfriendly.com, the Sabres have $6,665,476 of projected salary cap space and 20 players signed for the upcoming season.

If the Sabres keep Johansson at left wing, he could battle for the second-line spot behind Jeff Skinner with Vesey, rookie Victor Olofsson and Conor Sheary.

2 thoughts on “Signing Marcus Johansson gives Sabres scoring, playoff experience”

  1. So far Sabres summer additions look solid! Bots moving forward to address key needs ! That said, must see some real ” grit ” out of these players !

    Shalom ! Fr Pat Ipolito

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