Jack Johnson Bio
John Joseph Louis Johnson III is an American professional ice hockey defenseman who is currently an unrestricted free agent. He has previously played for the Los Angeles Kings, Columbus Blue Jackets, Pittsburgh Penguins, New York Rangers, Colorado Avalanche, and Chicago Blackhawks. In his prime, he was regarded as a two-way defenseman, combining physical prowess and offensive capability. Johnson won the Stanley Cup with the Avalanche in 2022.
Early Life and Background
John Joseph Louis Johnson III was born on January 13, 1987, in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA. Shortly after his birth, his family moved to Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. Johnson began playing hockey at a young age, participating in minor hockey leagues with Little Caesar’s. His early exposure to the sport laid the foundation for his future career. Johnson transferred to Shattuck-Saint Mary’s Boarding School in Faribault, Minnesota, before his eighth-grade year, where he further honed his skills. During the 2002-03 hockey season, he played for the school’s Midget Major AAA team, scoring 15 goals and 27 assists, helping the team win the U.S. National Championship alongside future NHL player Sidney Crosby.
Path to Hockey
Johnson was drafted by the Carolina Hurricanes in the first round, third overall, in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft from the Team USA under-18 national team. Instead of immediately joining the NHL, he played for the University of Michigan in the Central Collegiate Hockey Association (CCHA). In his freshman season, he set school records for points and penalty minutes by a freshman defenseman. After his freshman season, Johnson’s rights were traded to the Los Angeles Kings, where he continued to develop his skills. He played one more season at Michigan, setting the record for the most goals by a sophomore defenseman in a single season and earning the CCHA Offensive Defenseman of the Year award.
Jack Johnson Career
Early Career (2007-2012)
Johnson signed his entry-level contract with the Los Angeles Kings in March 2007, making his NHL debut on March 29 against the Vancouver Canucks. He played five games that season, recording 18 penalty minutes and no points. Johnson recorded his first NHL point on October 10, 2007, assisting on a goal by Kyle Calder. His first goal came on October 19, 2007, against Roberto Luongo of the Vancouver Canucks. During the 2009-10 season, he significantly improved his performance, scoring eight goals and 28 assists, which earned him a spot on Team USA at the 2010 Winter Olympics, where he won a silver medal.
Breakthrough (2012-2018)
In February 2012, Johnson was traded to the Columbus Blue Jackets after five seasons with the Kings. He recorded 14 points in 21 games for the Blue Jackets after the trade. During the 2012-13 NHL lockout, Johnson trained to be in top shape for the season. He served as an alternate captain for the Blue Jackets, leading the team in ice time and nearly helping them qualify for the playoffs. Johnson’s performance improved in the 2013-14 season, leading the Blue Jackets in playoff scoring. He requested a trade in January 2018, citing a reduced role.
Notable Works and Milestones
Johnson signed a five-year, $16.25 million contract with the Pittsburgh Penguins in July 2018. However, after two disappointing seasons, he was bought out by the Penguins and signed a one-year contract with the New York Rangers. He later joined the Colorado Avalanche, where he played a crucial role in their Stanley Cup victory in 2022.
Jack Johnson Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Johnson has been recognized for his contributions on the ice, including being selected for the U.S. Olympic team and earning accolades during his collegiate career.
Jack Johnson Awards Won
Johnson won the Stanley Cup with the Colorado Avalanche in 2022, marking a significant achievement in his professional career.
Jack Johnson Family
Jack Johnson is married to Kelly Quinn, who is the sister of former NFL quarterback Brady Quinn.
Personal Life
In October 2014, Johnson filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, claiming significant debts due to financial mismanagement by his family. Despite these challenges, he graduated from the University of Michigan with a degree in general studies in 2022. Johnson’s journey reflects both his resilience and dedication to his sport.
