Marcus Johansson Achieves 1,000th NHL Game Amid Record Streak

ST. PAUL, Minn. — Minnesota Wild forward Marcus Johansson reached a milestone by playing his 1,000th NHL game on Sunday night, marking the occasion with a key role in a thrilling game against the Calgary Flames at Grand Casino Arena.

The 35-year-old Johansson marked this achievement by extending his career-best point streak to nine consecutive games, making him only the second player in NHL history to have such a streak through his 1,000th game. The only other player to do it was legendary forward Bobby Hull in 1972.

Johansson’s assist on Matt Boldy‘s game-winning goal during the match pushed the Wild to a 2-0 victory, ensuring that the team has won four out of their last five games. Johansson expressed his gratitude and surprise at reaching this career mark.

“It’s hard to realize it’s happened,” Johansson said. “You try and not think about it too much, and then all of a sudden, it’s there. I’ll enjoy this, for sure.”

Johansson joined the Wild in 2023 after a career that included stints with teams like Washington, New Jersey, and Seattle. Despite previous struggles with injuries, he has become a vital player for Minnesota this season, stepping up especially after the injury to Mats Zuccarello.

Coach John Hynes praised Johansson’s playstyle, saying, “When he has the puck, that’s when stuff happens.” With the team navigating a challenging start to the season, Johansson’s consistency has helped provide much-needed stability, earning him recognition from teammates and fans alike.

Johansson’s daughters were present in the arena, and before the game, the Wild players wore T-shirts acknowledging his 1,000 games played. Johansson highlighted how thrilled he was to share this moment with his family and fans.

The Wild are now looking to build off their momentum as they prepare for a busy schedule ahead, and Johansson’s contributions will be key as they aim for success this season.