Blackhawks Player Grades: Reese Johnson

The next player in our Chicago Blackhawks player grades series is forward Reese Johnson. Johnson had an underwhelming standard on the scoresheet but brought the physical edge that Luke Richardson loves to have in his lineup. Unfortunately, the 25-year-old forward only suited up for 42 games in 2023-24 and missed some time due to injury late in the season.

Story of the Season

Reese Johnson last suited up on March 12 against the Anaheim Ducks. After getting involved in a big scrum, the scrappy forward was placed in concussion protocol which ultimately spelled the end of his season. Being a gritty player has its rewards but also has its downfalls in the form of injuries.

In 42 games, Johnson tallied five points (two goals, three assists) with 40 penalty minutes and a 51.9% face-off percentage. Johnson was valuable on the fourth line as an energy player while playing all three forward spots. Although he isn't a point producer, Luke Richardson sees a clear role for Johnson thanks to his TWTW (The Will To Win).

Grades

Jonnie Nonnie's Grade: D

Reese Johnson is a fourth-line placeholder. While he brought some toughness and adequate faceoff ability to the group, his lack of offensive skill and slow processing on defense led to more lapses than energy-creating bursts. It's hard to be in and out of the lineup, but Johnson would've earned more opportunities if he excelled in a particular area of his game. He didn't, and here we are. It's a D from me.

Tony Marchese's Grade: C

Not really much to grade here. Reese Johnson is about as close to a stock character in an NHL video game as you can get. Just plain average.

Ron Luce's Grade: C-

Reese Johnson has largely been an energy player for Luke Richardson and Co. Although he's likely to be replaced at some point, he could be a decent depth at the AHL level. If the Blackhawks improve as much as Kyle Davidson indicates they should, Johnson is at best the 13th forward. However, keeping him around for depth in case of injury can't hurt. He brought some value, but had an overall underwhelming season, hence the C-.

What's On Tap Next?

Reese Johnson is a restricted free agent with arbitration eligibility. Although his case wouldn't yield him much more than the veteran minimum, he could earn a one-way contract in 2024-25. If he sticks around, he'll get paid the same no matter if he's in the NHL or AHL. That said, Davidson has to make a decision on the current free agent. Will he be back with the organization? We'll see.

Tell us if you agree with our grades! What would you give Reese Johnson? Let us know at @FourFeathersPod on X and Instagram !

Related: Blackhawks Player Grades: Colin Blackwell

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