Jack Johnson Is Exactly The Veteran That Don Waddell Wanted
When our friends over at PuckPedia posted that the Blue Jackets would sign long-time NHLer and former Jacket Jack Johnson, the reaction on social media was split. On one hand, there was the "What is Don Waddell doing?" crowd, but on the other, some fans knew exactly what he was trying to do.
Jack Johnson has played in 1187 NHL games, with 445 wearing Union Blue. If you don't remember, he came to Columbus, along with a first-round pick (Marko Dano) from LA after being traded for Jeff Carter. He instantly became a fan favorite in Columbus. He scored 36 goals and totaled 154 points with the Blue Jackets. Although the 2014-15 season was his best season in terms of points, it's the 2016-17 that is often considered his best year in a CBJ uniform. He played in all 82 games and had 5 goals and 23 points. But he also had a career-best +/- which was +23, and 194 blocked shots.
Johnson is often described as a "linebacker on skates." Listed at 6-foot-1, 227 lbs, when he hits you, you feel it. He's not afraid to protect his teammates and mix it up in front of his goalie either. He has a history of laying some massive hits on guys wearing the opposite jersey.
So why did Don Waddell go out and get Jack Johnson? Well, for starters Waddell said he wanted to add a veteran defenseman in free agency. Adding him with Gudbranson, Severson, Provorov, and Werenski suddenly gives them not only experience but Stanley Cup-winning experience. And with young kids like Jiricek and Mateychuk, his leadership and being a mentor is going to be huge.
Johnson is married to Notre Dame football legend Brady Quinn's sister. He is also the brother-in-law to Ohio State Football icon AJ Hawk, so hard work and teamwork runs in the family. Johnson, much like Hawk, made a living hitting hard and getting to the opponent, something this Blue Jacket team has been lacking the past few seasons. Johnson could NEVER be described as lazy in terms of preparation. He's a monster in the gym as well.
Johnson also continues to live in central Ohio, so he can be a mentor off the ice as well. Showing the players who are new to the city around town can be huge for the young guys and can't be discounted.
Jack Johnson is not the flashiest signing and is coming to the end of his career, but it could be just what David Jiricek and Denton Mateychuk need. One could argue it's exactly what the entire defensive corps needs as well. His experience of winning a championship, and playing with superstars like Sidney Crosby, Nathan MacKinnon, and Cale Makar can't be understated.
The experience and leadership he brings with him are invaluable, and that's what Don Waddell wanted.
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