Johnson Announces Retirement After 17 Seasons with the Avalanche
Erik Johnson, the notable defenseman, announced his retirement on Wednesday after an illustrious career that spanned 17 seasons. His time in the NHL was marked by significant achievements, including winning the Stanley Cup with the Colorado Avalanche in 2022.
Career Highlights of Erik Johnson
- Drafted first overall by the St. Louis Blues in the 2006 NHL Draft.
- Traded to the Colorado Avalanche in 2011 as part of a major deal.
- Played a total of 1,023 regular-season games for the Blues, Avalanche, Buffalo Sabres, and Philadelphia Flyers.
- Accumulated 95 goals and 253 assists throughout his career.
- Registered 1,717 blocked shots and 1,695 hits.
Injury and Resilience
During his career, Johnson faced significant challenges, including a serious knee injury that caused him to miss the entire 2008-09 season. This injury occurred in a golf cart accident, highlighting the unpredictable nature of sports injuries.
A Fan Favorite in Denver
The 37-year-old defenseman became a cherished figure among Avalanche fans. Johnson played 14 of his 17 seasons in Colorado, where he built a lasting legacy. His most memorable moment came during the Stanley Cup victory parade, where he engaged fans by leading a sing-along of Blink-182’s hit “All the Small Things.”
Career Statistics and Legacy
Johnson’s tenure with the Avalanche ranks him near the top in various franchise records:
- Second in most regular-season games played among Avalanche defensemen (731), just behind Adam Foote.
- First in franchise history for blocked shots (1,373).
- Third in hits by a defenseman (1,288).
His professional journey saw him become the 25th American-born defenseman in NHL history in terms of games played. Johnson made his NHL debut on October 4, 2007, with the St. Louis Blues against the Phoenix Coyotes and recorded his first assist on a goal by Keith Tkachuk. His final game took place on April 13, 2023, with the Avalanche, where he scored an empty-net goal.
A Grateful Goodbye
In his retirement statement, Johnson expressed deep appreciation for the support he received. “Hockey has been my life, and I’m grateful for every second,” he stated. He looks forward to the next chapter of his life while cherishing the memories created throughout his remarkable journey.
