New Penguins Defenseman Ryan Johnson Reveals What He Can Bring to Pittsburgh
New Penguins Defenseman Ryan Johnson Reveals What He Can Bring to Pittsburgh initially appeared on SportsNet Pittsburgh. Add SportsNet Pittsburgh as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Ryan Johnson hasn’t made his Pittsburgh Penguins debut but, however the defenseman already has an concept of how he can contribute to his new group.
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Acquired from the Buffalo Sabres on Oct. 12, Johnson brings NHL expertise and a puck-moving ability set to Pittsburgh’s line of defense. The 25-year-old mentioned his strengths in an interview with SportsNet Pittsburgh’s Katie Florio.
“Defensively, I feel that is my energy the place I can use my ft, velocity, quickness too to play quick and attempt to assist get the group the puck,” Johnson stated.
His means to maneuver the puck and defend along with his skating may give Pittsburgh an alternative choice on the blue line as he works towards incomes a spot within the lineup. Johnson has appeared in 47 profession NHL video games, all with Buffalo, recording seven assists. He performed a career-high 41 video games through the 2023-24 season however spent a lot of the next two campaigns within the American Hockey League.
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Johnson performed for the Rochester Americans, Buffalo’s AHL affiliate, all through his first three-plus skilled seasons. He additionally started the 2026-27 marketing campaign there, showing in 4 video games earlier than the commerce to Pittsburgh.
The defenseman stated the AHL’s aggressive tempo and the chance to play vital minutes helped him proceed creating his sport. He believes these experiences will profit him as he seems to earn one other alternative within the NHL.
Now with Pittsburgh, Johnson is getting acquainted along with his new teammates whereas ready for his alternative to enter the lineup. He stated the possibility to observe with the Penguins and spend time across the group has made the transition gratifying.
“It’s been truly enjoyable to simply meet the fellows right here and prepare into the motion too,” Johnson stated. “Watching the sport after which training with the fellows too. It’s been good.”
