Luke Johnson Signs with Chicago Blackhawks

North Dakota junior forward Luke Johnson has signed an entry-level contract with the Chicago Blackhawks. Johnson was a fifth round draft choice, 134th overall by the Blackhawks in the 2013 NHL Draft.

Johnson scored 11-10-21 in 43 games 43 games this season for North Dakota primarily playing the second line center role. Johnson is a hard-nosed center who plays an aggressive style of hockey. He uses his speed and strength to be hard on the forecheck and wins a lot of puck battles along the boards. Johnson struggled with taking bad penalties throughout his career at North Dakota. His lack of offensive potential likely limits his upside at the pro level, but he has the potential to fill a bottom-six role for the Blackhawks after some time spent in the minor leagues.

Johnson suffered a knee injury in the Frozen Four semifinals that caused him to miss the national championship game. There has been no update on the severity of that injury, but it is not likely to keep Johnson out long-term.