The Blackhawks have traded defenseman Brent Seabrook's contract to the Tampa Bay Lightning in exchange for forward Tyler Johnson and a second-round pick in 2023, the team announced late Tuesday night.
Seabrook has three years left on his contract that carries a $6.875 million cap hit. He announced in March that he's ending his playing career after 15 NHL seasons due to injuries.
The Lightning utilized long-term injured reserve for cap relief purposes this past season and adding Seabrook allows them to do so again. Seabrook had a full no-movement clause and waived it to complete the deal, something Marian Hossa did as well when his contract was traded to Arizona in 2018.
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"I would first like to thank Brent for his cooperation in this process," President/GM Stan Bowman said in a statement. "Throughout his career, Brent put his team first and we appreciate all his many accomplishments with and contributions to the Chicago Blackhawks. He will be remembered as a champion and will always be a part of the Blackhawks family."
Johnson, 30, registered 21 points (eight goals, 13 assists) in 55 games this season for the Lightning. He also recorded seven points (four goals, three assists) in 23 postseason contests and played a third-line role in back-to-back Stanley Cup runs for Tampa Bay, where he's spent his first nine seasons.
Johnson has three years left on his contract that carries a $5 million cap hit. He can play center or wing, and is expected to play a role on Chicago's bottom-six this coming season.
"Tyler Johnson adds a large amount of skill and depth to our offense," Bowman said. "His versatility across the lineup, two-way play and championship experience throughout his career make our lineup stronger. We look forward to watching the immediate impact he will have on our team."
NHL
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