The Dallas Stars returned from the Olympic break to secure a decisive 4-1 victory against the Seattle Kraken on Wednesday, aiming to keep pace with tough contenders like the Colorado Avalanche and Minnesota Wild in the Central Division. Wyatt Johnston contributed significantly by scoring two goals, including a power-play goal that sealed the game. This performance elevated Johnston into an exclusive NHL group, as highlighted by broadcaster Josh Bogorad.
Johnston Joins an Exclusive List of Young NHL Goal Scorers
Wyatt Johnston is just the 30th NHL player all-time to record three straight 30-goal seasons before turning 23 years old. The full list of players to do it since 2000: (Auston) Matthews, (Connor) McDavid, (David) Pastrnak, (Patrik) Laine, (Steven) Stamkos, (Evgeni) Malkin, (Alex) Ovechkin, (Ilya) Kovalchuk…And now, Johnston.
– Josh Bogorad, Television Broadcaster
This achievement places Johnston among some of the NHL’s most prolific goal scorers of recent decades. Although players like Patrik Laine have experienced decline and injuries have impacted others such as Steven Stamkos, this group still largely consists of athletes destined for the Hall of Fame.
Consistent Performance Since Early Career Launch
Drafted in the first round of the 2021 NHL Draft, Johnston quickly established himself in the league, playing all 82 games in his rookie season at just 19 years old and scoring 24 goals. Since then, he has maintained impressive consistency, not missing a single game and steadily increasing his goal totals with 32 goals at age 20, 33 goals last season, and currently sitting at 31 goals this season before his 23rd birthday in May.
Contract and Future Prospects with the Stars
Johnston’s current contract pays him $8.4 million annually through 2030, securing his role as a key player despite the Stars facing salary cap challenges this summer. His ongoing production positions him as a central figure in Dallas’ long-term plans, with a potential 40-goal season still possible. His contributions remain pivotal to the Stars’ Stanley Cup aspirations.
Upcoming Challenges for the Dallas Stars
Looking ahead, the Stars will face the Nashville Predators on Saturday as they continue their push in a competitive Central Division. Johnston’s performance and durability give the team a valuable asset as they aim for sustained success over the remainder of the season and beyond.
Wyatt Johnston is just the 30th NHL player all-time to record three straight 30-goal seasons before turning 23 years old.
The full list of players to do it since 2000:
Matthews
McDavid
Pastrnak
Laine
Stamkos
Malkin
Ovechkin
Kovalchuk…And now, Johnston.
— Josh Bogorad (@JoshBogorad) February 26, 2026
