Ching Johnson
Inducted:
1958
Player Stats
5 ft 11 in (180 cm)
210 lb (95 kg; 15 st 0 lb)
Born:
December 7, 1897
Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
Died:
June 17, 1979
Silver Spring, Maryland, U.S.
Position:
Defence
College:
University of Manitoba
Ching Johnson was a dominant defenseman who helped define physical, stay-at-home play during the NHL’s early years. Playing from 1926 to 1937, Johnson spent the core of his career with the New York Rangers, where his size, strength, and defensive awareness made him a cornerstone of the team’s blue line. He was known for his ability to neutralize top scorers, clear the crease, and play heavy minutes in high-pressure situations.
Johnson played a vital role in the Rangers’ rise as a championship contender, contributing to Stanley Cup victories in 1928 and 1933. While offense was not his focus, his disciplined positioning and toughness gave his teams a consistent defensive edge in a rugged era. Widely respected by teammates and opponents, Ching Johnson’s impact on early NHL defense was recognized with his induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1958.
Johnson's Awards and Record:
- 2x Stanley Cup Champion (1928, 1933)
- 2x NHL First All-Star Team (1932, 1933)
- 2x NHL Second All-Star Team (1931, 1934)
- Hart Trophy Runner-up (1931–32)
- Regarded as one of the hardest bodycheckers to ever play the game
NHL Teams
New York Rangers (1926-1937)
New York Americans (1937-1938)
Number Worn:
51, 5
NHL Stats
Seasons:
12 (1926–1938)
Games Played:
436
Goals:
38
Assists:
48
Points:
86
Penalty Minutes:
808
Playoff Game:
61
Playoff Points:
7 (G-5,A-2)
Stanley Cup:
2 (1928, 1933)
