After seven seasons in Washington, Marcus Johansson is excited to begin his new opportunity in New Jersey.
While the 26-year-old is leaving a top team in the Capitals to join an up-and-coming Devils squad, the Swedish forward is nonetheless enthusiastic about what lies ahead for his new club.
"It's a good group, a group of young guys, (a) team and organization that's heading in the right direction," Johansson told Tom Gulitti of NHL.com. "It feels like coming there now you're part of that almost from the start. I'm feeling really good about this. It's going to be a fun year."
Related: Johansson embraces new role with 'underdog' Devils
Johansson is coming off of a career year with the Capitals, in which he posted 24 goals and 34 assists. He believes he'll have the opportunity to build on those totals with the Devils.
"That's a chance to take the next step as well as a player. I'm excited for new opportunities and new challenges," Johansson added. "You get there and you don't really know anything, I don't know anyone, which is kind of fun too."
Johansson's addition wasn't the only move by the Devils this offseason. The club also added veteran center Brian Boyle in free agency, just days after selecting forward Nico Hischier with the top pick in the draft.
On Sunday, the Devils made one more summer signing, agreeing to terms with University of Denver free-agent blue-liner Will Butcher, the 2017 Hobey Baker winner.
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