Avalanche Cup champion still drawing a lot of buzz ahead of next NHL season
Photo credit: NHL.com
Former Colorado Avalanche Stanley Cup champion Erik Johnson continues to make headlines as he enters the offseason still without a contract, leaving fans and analysts speculating about where he might land next.
As of late August, Johnson remains unsigned by any NHL team. So what does the future hold for the veteran defenseman?
Erik Johnson remains one of the most UFAs still on the market.
Michael DeRosa from The Hockey News writes that Johnson wrapped up his 17th NHL season, beginning the year with the Philadelphia Flyers. In 22 games for Philly, he tallied one goal, three points, and 40 hits. At the 2025 trade deadline, he was sent back to the Colorado Avalanche, where he added one goal, one assist, and a +4 rating across 14 games.
"Overall, at this stage of his career, Johnson is more of a depth defenseman. While this is the case, it is fair to wonder if he could get at least a professional tryout (PTO) if he elects to continue his playing career." -DeRosa
The 2006 first-overall pick brings over 1,000 NHL games of experience and could serve as a valuable veteran presence to guide younger players.
Still, it will be intriguing to watch where Johnson's career goes from here.
The Avalanche currently have all 23 active roster spots filled, which likely rules out offering a professional tryout to anyone, including Johnson.
Johnson might secure a modest one-year contract with another team, but there's simply no space for him in Colorado. Still, when he eventually retires, it's safe to say his number will join the rafters alongside other Avalanche's legends.
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 4 | 15 ANSWERS Avalanche Cup champion still drawing a lot of buzz ahead of next NHL season Do you think Erik Johnson lands a contract before the start of next NHL season? | ||
| yes | 9 | 60 % |
| no | 6 | 40 % |
| List of polls | ||
TRENDING NOW
