RoadRunners Goalie Johnson Signs with OHL's London Knights
August 22, 2016 - North American Hockey League (NAHL)
Topeka Pilots News Release
TOPEKA, Kan. - The London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League have signed Topeka RoadRunners goaltender Tyler Johnson to a standard players contract for the 2016-17 season, the Canadian team announced recently.
Johnson, from Amherst, N.Y., posted a 20-13 record for the RoadRunners this past season in the North American Hockey League. Johnson had committed to the University of Maine back in December, but a recent NCAA ruling that would have forced Johnson to sit out an entire season before being eligible apparently played a factor in the 6-4, 200-pound goaltender heading to major junior hockey.
"We certainly understand Tyler's situation and wish him the best of luck with his hockey career," said Topeka GM Joe Clark. "He's a pro prospect, and we agree that he has a bright future. He developed tremendously and took steps while he wore a RoadRunner jersey, but he knows he's at the beginning stages of his career."
Johnson said that his time in Topeka was invaluable.
"Topeka gave me the opportunity to further my career," said Johnson "It's all about development, and the coaching staff put the time in with me to help develop my game. It's a family atmosphere there, and a lot of the guys there will be friends for life."
The Knights have won four OHL championships (2005, 2012, 2013 and 2016) and two Memorial Cup championship (2005 and 2016). London has produced 3 overall No. 1 picks in the NHL draft, including all-stars Rick Nash, Patrick Kane and John Tavares. Six London players were selected in the 2016 NHL entry draft, including three first-rounders - Olli Juolevi (Vancouver), Matthew Tkachuk (Calgary) and Max Jones (Anaheim). London goalie Tyler Parsons was selected in the 2nd round by Calgary.
• Discuss this story on the North American Hockey League message board...
North American Hockey League Stories from August 22, 2016
- RoadRunners Goalie Johnson Signs with OHL's London Knights - Topeka Pilots
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
