Wild Sign Marcus Johansson to Contract Extension

Photo: Stan Szeto - USA TODAY Sports

The Minnesota Wild’s offseason has begun already, after they were bounced (yet again) in the first round of the NHL Playoffs. But, the first piece of offseason news to break happens to be a positive development. On Tuesday, the team announced the signing of Marcus Johansson to a 2-year contract extension.

SAINT PAUL, Minn. – Minnesota Wild General Manager Bill Guerin today announced the National Hockey League (NHL) club has signed forward Marcus Johansson to a two-year, $4 million contract ($2 million average annual value) that goes through the 2024-25 season.

Wild.com
Marcus Johansson made presence felt after trade to Minnesota Wild

Johansson was a surprise acquisition (Wild sent a 2024 3rd Round pick to WSH) at the trade deadline and a player that many Wild fans weren’t thrilled to see return. But the moment he hit the ice, Johansson was a different player than the guy who dawned a Wild sweater in 2020-21.

In 20 games with the Wild during the 2023 regular season, Johansson posted 18 points (6G, 12A), a plus-six rating, five multi-point games and two game-winning goals. From March 1 on, “he”JoJo” led Minnesota in power play points (five), ranked tied for first in assists, second in scoring, tied for third in goals and fifth in shots (42). He also potted two goals in the playoffs (6 games).

Unlocking Matt Boldy another reason for contract extension

But most importantly, Johansson seemed to unlock something in Matt Boldy, who posted 14 goals and 23 points in the 19 games he played with Marcus Johansson this season. In 61 games prior to acquiring JoJo, Boldy posted just 16 goals (40 points).

Minnesota does not have much for salary cap cash, to work with this offseason. But I’m glad Billy found enough for Marcus Johansson.

Eric Strack | Minnesota Sports Fan

Mentioned in this article:

More About::