Tampa Bay leaning on Johnson in the playoffs once again

Spring must be Tyler Johnson's favorite time of year.

Scoring 23 points in 26 games, Johnson was instrumental during the Lightning's march to the Stanley Cup Final last postseason, and the Tampa Bay forward is off to a similar start a year later.

Johnson has six points in two games against the Detroit Red Wings, propelling Tampa Bay to a commanding 2-0 series lead, and his team has taken notice.

"You're learning that last year's playoffs were not a fluke," Lighting head coach Jon Cooper told Joe Smith of the Tampa Bay Times. "Time and time again, playing in the big games, (Johnson) continues to rise to the occasion. Definitely glad he's on our bench."

Lightning forward Brian Boyle praised Johnson's performances as well.

"The kid has got a lot of heart. He's a huge part of our team and he's leading the way right now," he said.

Johnson's ability to step up in the absence of captain Steven Stamkos, especially after a disappointing regular season for himself, has been the difference in the series thus far.

"What we focus on the most is the playoffs," Johnson said. "That's what we play for, that's what we train for, that's the fun part of the year. It's been a frustrating year up to this point, but it's just getting ready for this."

Johnson scored just 38 points in 69 games this season, a year after notching a career-high 72.