Lars Johansson, the SHL’s reigning Goalie of the Year, is reportedly close to signing on with the Chicago Blackhawks, per a pair of Swedish outlets (Expressen and Goteborgs-Posten.)
Johansson, 28, had terrific numbers for Frolunda this season, posting a .927 save percentage and 1.74 GAA during the regular season, and a .947 save percentage and 1.43 GAA in the playoffs.
Chicago would prove to be an interesting landing spot. Corey Crawford is locked in long-term, with a $6 million cap hit annually through 2020. His backup, Scott Darling, has one year left on a very affordable deal ($587,500) and posted solid-if-unspectacular numbers this year: 12-8-3, .915 save percentage, 2.58 GAA.
The ‘Hawks had a bit of a revolving door in goal with AHL Rockford this season, as four different ‘tenders -- Mac Carruth, Michael Leighton, Mark Visentin and Drew MacIntyre -- all got games. None of the four are currently under contract for next season. MacIntyre is out of the mix entirely, as he’s since signed in the German League. Leighton and Visentin are pending UFAs, while Carruth is a restricted free agent.
Johansson has spent his entire professional career in Sweden, having previously suited up for Mora and Vasteras.