Johnston posted an assist and four shots on goal in Thursday’s 4-3 win over the Predators. Johnston led all Stars forwards with 21:09 of ice time despite playing in a third-line role at even strength. That was a common occurrence down the stretch and in the playoffs in 2023-24, as the line assignment typically doesn’t define Johnston’s usage too strictly. The 21-year-old put up 65 points (10 on the power play) and 216 shots on net in 82 regular-season contests last year, and he could still find another level in his game this season.