1200 game NHL Stanley Cup Champion reaches new career low as he's released from his team

The Minnesota Wild completed multiple moves today, as they claimed defenseman Daemon Hunt off of waivers from the Columbus Blue Jackets and recalled Matt Kiersted from the Iowa Wild.

This allowed them some flexibility with their lineup, as former Stanley Cup champion Jack Johnson was released from his professional tryout today.

Johnson, a 1,228-game NHL veteran, has seen his career hit an all-time low since he was unable to earn a contract with the Wild.

This is unfortunate news for the veteran who would've suited up for his 20th season in the NHL had he signed a new deal with General Manager Bill Guerin.

If Jack Johnson believes he's not ready to hang up the skates, it seems he may have to sign a contract in the AHL or overseas, as this could spell the end for the 38-year-old defenseman in the twilight of his career.

He was originally a 3rd overall pick in the 2005 NHL Draft by the Carolina Hurricanes and began his career with the Los Angeles Kings.

The veteran defenseman suited up for the Blackhawks during the 2022-23 NHL season, where he played 58 games and scored 4 points (4 A).

Since then, he's become a journeyman in the NHL and has played for the Los Angeles Kings, Columbus Blue Jackets (twice), Pittsburgh Penguins, Chicago Blackhawks, and the Colorado Avalanche.

Will this spell the end for Johnson? He could have the intangibles NHL teams need in terms of leadership, but on the ice, they might need more than he's capable of at this moment in time.