Jim Johnson is a former professional ice hockey player who played as a defenseman in the National Hockey League (NHL) for over a decade. He was born on February 22, 1962, in New Hope, Minnesota, and grew up playing hockey in the state's youth leagues.
Johnson began his professional career in 1984 when he was drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the second round of the NHL Entry Draft. He spent his first two seasons playing for the Penguins' minor league affiliate, the Baltimore Skipjacks, before making his NHL debut in the 1986-87 season.
Over the course of his career, Johnson played for several NHL teams, including the Pittsburgh Penguins, Minnesota North Stars, Dallas Stars, Washington Capitals, and Phoenix Coyotes. He was known for his physical play and defensive skills, and he was often tasked with shutting down the opposing team's top forwards.
One of the highlights of Johnson's career came in the 1991 Stanley Cup Finals when he helped lead the Minnesota North Stars to the championship series. Although the North Stars ultimately lost to the Pittsburgh Penguins in six games, Johnson's strong play on defense was a key factor in the team's success.
In addition to his NHL career, Johnson also represented the United States in international competition. He played for Team USA in the 1987 Canada Cup and the 1991 Canada Cup, as well as the 1991 World Championships.
After retiring from professional hockey in 1998, Johnson went on to coach at the college and professional levels. He served as an assistant coach for the University of Minnesota men's hockey team from 1999 to 2000 before joining the coaching staff of the NHL's Los Angeles Kings in 2000.
Johnson went on to coach for several other NHL teams, including the Washington Capitals, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Buffalo Sabres. He also served as the head coach of the AHL's Bridgeport Sound Tigers from 2010 to 2011.
Throughout his career, Johnson was known for his toughness, work ethic, and leadership both on and off the ice. He was a respected player and coach in the hockey community, and his contributions to the sport have been recognized by fans and colleagues alike.
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