Adam Robert Johnson was an American professional ice hockey forward who played 13 games in the National Hockey League with the Pittsburgh Penguins during the 2018–19 and 2019–20 seasons. He also played in Europe with the Malmö Redhawks, Augsburger Panther, and Nottingham Panthers.
A Passion for Hockey
Born and raised in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, Johnson developed a passion for hockey at an early age. He played his junior hockey in the United States Hockey League (USHL) with the Des Moines Buccaneers and the Sioux City Musketeers.
In 2013, Johnson was selected by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the seventh round of the NHL Entry Draft. He spent the next four seasons playing for the Penguins’ minor league affiliates, the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins and the Wheeling Nailers.
NHL Debut and European Ventures
Johnson made his NHL debut with the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 2018–19 season. He played 11 games with the team, scoring one goal and one assist. He played two more games with the Penguins in the 2019–20 season.
After his NHL stint, Johnson played in Europe with the Malmö Redhawks of the Swedish Hockey League (SHL), the Augsburger Panther of the Deutsche Eishockey Liga (DEL), and the Nottingham Panthers of the Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL).
A Tragic End
On October 28, 2023, Johnson died at the age of 29 after suffering a fatal neck laceration during a collision with another player in a game for the Nottingham Panthers against the Sheffield Steelers. The incident occurred at the Utilita Arena in Sheffield, England.
Johnson’s death sent shockwaves through the hockey world. He was remembered as a talented and passionate player who was always willing to put in the extra effort. He was also known for his positive attitude and his infectious smile.
