"Loyalty in hockey is not a two-way street": NHL analyst Mike Johnson discusses how young players have more power than ever

The NHL has yet to be hit with the player empowerment movement at a level comparable to other leagues like the NBA. In the last few years, player empowerment has been a major talking point in the NBA as players have continued to find ways to force trades and land in their preferred destinations.

This offseason, there have been some indicators that the NHL's player empowerment movement may have begun. For example, Nick Robertson is now seeking to force a trade out of Toronto in pursuit of a new beginning, despite the fact that he is projected to be a top-six forward for the Maple Leafs.

On Thursday morning's First Up, NHL analyst Mike Johnson opened up on player empowerment. With the phrase being increasingly common in leagues like the NBA, Johnson spoke about whether the same player empowerment has started in the NHL.

"The perception is like, we want to take control of our own careers and we don't worry about whatever the hockey world air quote is going to think about. I think that's a good thing because let me tell you, the rest of the league doesn't give care about you, right? Like you care about yourself," Johnson said.

"The loyalty with hockey is not a two-way street. You don't get it and give it. Like, you got to take it when you have it. So if you have a chance to use your leverage, whatever that might be, you got to use it."

Recent examples of player empowerment in the NHL

As previously mentioned, budding young Maple Leafs forward Nick Robertson is an example of player empowerment.

After a strong season with the Maple Leafs last season, the restricted free agent is looking for a change of scenery. Although Toronto is eager to re-sign him and name him a top-six forward for the season ahead, Robertson is looking to shake things up.

While he has limited options as a restricted free agent, he seems dead set on a fresh start with another franchise.

Another example of player empowerment is Patrik Laine. After being reinstated following a stint in the NHL's Player Assistance Program, Laine still had his sights set on parting ways with the Blue Jackets. Eventually, Columbus GM Don Waddell found a suitable trade that landed Laine in Montreal.

With the NHL season rapidly approaching and a slew of young rookies poised to impact the league, only time will tell whether we see more such examples.