Defenseman Erik Johnson has called it a career after playing 17 seasons in the National Hockey League. Johnson was the first overall pick in the NHL draft in 2006 by the St. Louis Blues and traded to the Colorado Avalanche in 2011. He would spend the next 13 seasons with the Avalanche before leaving in free agency. The Minnesota native would spend time with the Buffalo Sabres and Philadelphia Flyers before being traded back to Colorado to finish his career.

“After 18 incredible years in the NHL, I am retiring with a heart full of gratitude,” said Johnson. “To the St. Louis Blues, Buffalo Sabres, Philadelphia Flyers and most of all the Colorado Avalanche: thank you for the opportunities and memories, especially the 2022 Stanley Cup.  To my teammates, coaches, and staff: your support, camaraderie, and dedication shaped my career.  To the fans: your passion made every moment unforgettable. To my family and friends: your unconditional love and support carried me through. Hockey has been my life, and I’m grateful for every second.  I’m excited for what’s next and will always cherish this journey.”

Johnson was vital to the core of the Avalanche as they built a winning team and strived for a Stanley Cup. He played in 1,023 NHL contests; 731 of those were with the Avalanche. The blueliner is second in franchise games played for a defenseman behind only Adam Foote with 967. Johnson added 57 playoff games, 20 of which were during the 2022 Stanley Cup run.

“E.J.,” as he became known to fans and teammates alike, grew to love Colorado. He would spend his summers training with his teammates at Family Sports Center. Even when he was not on the Avalanche, E.J. trained with the Avalanche during the summers.

 

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Johnson’s success

Success followed E.J. wherever he went. As a member of the 2010 U.S. Men’s Olympic team, he would help them earn a silver medal. He was the top prospect coming out of the University of Minnesota. In his short time with the Gophers, Johnson earned a place on the WCHA All-Rookie team. Johnson helped the Gophers win the WCHA championship as well. All of this would help Johnson in gaining him experience with the Stanley Cup in 2022 with the Avalanche.

Erik Johnson finished his career with 95 goals and 253 assists in the regular season. He could be one player who may have an automatic bid to raise his banner to the rafters. The Condor may never fly again on the ice, but he will always have a place in Avalanche history.