Faceoff Factor

Nick Johnson Takes Next Step With Penguins

Jesse Marshall | WBS "Baby" Penguins

Jul 8, 11:15 AM | Hype this story!

There’s something to be said for consistency at any level of hockey.

Nick Johnson probably exhibited it in every facet you can think of.

Johnson, who was just signed to a two-year entry level deal this past March, played in 133 games for Dartmouth at the collegiate level. That’s every game he could have possibly participated in.

What’s more, Johnson did it while posting impressive numbers. He racked up 125 points (57+68) in 133 career Dartmouth games.

Before that, Johnson put together a successful two season string in the Alberta Junior Hockey League playing for the St. Albert Saints. Johnson, his second year, registered 35 goals and 71 points despite missing significant time with an injury.

To Johnson, the time spent in Alberta Junior is invaluable.

“Going from midget to junior was a big jump, it really helped me mature. I feel like just having that 60 games a year and a higher level of hockey just really helped develop my game. It helps me get ready for every game in college.”

The Penguins nabbed him following that season in the third round at #67 overall.

Now, his career at Dartmouth is over, and the Calgary native right wing is ready for the next step in his hockey career. He took the first step this spring when he was a part of Wilkes-Barre’s trip to the Calder Cup Finals.

Johnson spent his final year at Dartmouth bulking up. He now registers at 6’1 – 183lbs; decent size for a guy that likes to get to the net and make things happen.

“I’d say I’m a good offensive guy. I can move pretty well, I’m not the most agile guy but I can get the puck to the net. Agility is what I need to work most on but I can skate. I’m pretty creative. The things that have changed about me are that I’ve gotten a lot bigger and stronger and I’m becoming a very reliable guy in the offensive zone.”

For Penguins fans, Johnson is a youngster that you need to keep an eye on. He’s already playing a mature two-way game and could really develop into a nice third line winger.

However, if he exhibits the consistency in scoring at the AHL level as he did in the collegiate level, you might see even bigger things out of this Calgary native.