Stephen Johns

Johns, 29, calling it a career after scoring 15 goals and 33 points in 167 NHL games. He didn't play at all in 2020-21 because of post-traumatic headaches and post-concussion syndrome after he was limited to 17 appearances in 2019-20. Johns has battled depression and he decided to go around the country helping others who have struggles with mental health. “I’m writing this post because I’m tired of letting depression destroy my life,” Johns said in his announcement. “The realization that my career has come to an end has really [expletive] with my identity... What I’ll miss most about the game of hockey is providing inspiration. So, I’ve decided to rollerblade and road-trip across the country to hopefully help others facing their own battles. I’ll be documenting along the way, to share my full story, because I know what it feels like to be alone. If I can still inspire one person to climb out of their hole, then that’s a successful trip and exactly what I’m aiming for.”

Johns has dealt with post-traumatic headaches and post-concussion syndrome, which limited him to 17 games in 2019-20 and prevented him from playing in 2020-21. Stars GM Jim Nill said on Friday that Johns is dealing with his medical people and the team has stayed in communication with him. 

Johns only played 17 games last campaign because of post-traumatic headaches and post-concussion syndrome. He also only appeared in four postseason matches because he didn't feel comfortable on the ice. There were reports in late December that Johns wouldn't play at all this campaign. He will start the year on long-term injured reserve. 

It was thought that Johns would not play this season as he was listed as an "injured player not participating in training camp" according to the Dallas Stars roster release last week but things have changed and he will undergo his physical as soon as he is out of quarantine. Johns only played 17 games in 2019-20 because of post-traumatic headaches and post-concussion syndrome. Stay tuned.