2014 NHL Awards Preview – Calder Trophy

Mar 19, 2014; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Tampa Bay Lightning center Tyler Johnson (9) faces off against the Toronto Maple Leafs at Air Canada Centre. The Lightning beat the Maple Leafs 5-3. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports

Tyler Johnson, Tampa Bay Lightning

Johnson signed with the Lightning as an undrafted free agent in 2012 following 4 years in the WHL.  He got his feet wet last season, appearing in 14 games with the Bolts, recording 6 points.  He made his full impact this season as the Lightning’s second line centre  and stepping up in the absence of Steven Stamkos for the duration of his leg injury.

Johnson scored 24 goals (T-1st among rookies) and added 26 assists (3rd) for 50 points (3rd) and had a +23 rating (3rd ) this season.  He also tied for the league lead (not just the rookie lead) in shorthanded goals with 5.