Erik Johnson announces his retirement from NHL originally appeared on The Sporting News
With the stunning news that Max Pacioretty had quietly retired and taken on a job with the University of Michigan, we have another retirement that has seemingly come out of the blue.
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On Wednesday afternoon it was announced that defenseman Erik Johnson had retired, with the Avalanche announcing the news on social media.
Johnson retires a 17-year veteran, who spent 14 of those years with the Avalanche. he skated in 1,023 games and registered 348 points (95 goals, 253 assists) while adding 1,717 blocks and 1,695 hits and won a Stanley Cup with the Avalanche in 2021-22.
The team released a full statement regarding Johnson’s retirement with a message from the defenseman as well on Wednesday:
“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.
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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 one of only two American-born defensemen to go 1st overall in the NHL Draft, joining Bryan Berard and was the only defender from 1997-2013 to be drafted first overall, and is one of six defenders chosen first overall to play in 1,000 games.
Although he seemed to have some PTO offers on the table, Johnson felt it was time to retire and finish on his terms.
Johnson finishes his career ranked 8th in games played on the Avalanche’s all-time leaderboard and will go down as one of the team’s most recognizable and beloved players over the last 20 years.