Avalanche legend breaks silence with a jaw-dropping message fans need to hear
Photo credit: Daily Faceoff
Colorado Avalanche defenseman Erik Johnson officially announced his retirement from the NHL, closing the book on an incredible career. The Stanley Cup champion will be remembered as one of the franchise's greatest defensemen, but his retirement press conference was more about his character and personal journey than his on-ice achievements.
During his speech, he spoke more on the importance of being a good teammate and a good person.
Erik Johnson calls it a career for the Avalanche but spoke on what truly matters.
Johnson grew emotional while speaking to the Avalanche media, reflecting on what the city and its passionate fanbase meant to him, but even more so, on the deep camaraderie he shared with his teammates and the staff throughout his career.
An emotional goodbye and some wise words from Erik Johnson 🥺👏 @6erikjohnson6
Johnson wasn't focused on accolades, wins, or losses, what mattered most to him was how he treated those around him. He cared deeply about his community and took pride in being a role model for his teammates and everyone who looked up to him.
Former teammate Nathan MacKinnon reinforced that sentiment when reflecting on Johnson during his retirement, highlighting the impact he had both on and off the ice.
"Just a great friend. Awesome person, awesome teammate, great player. Big part of all of our success over the years." -MacKinnon
Avalanche captain Gabriel Landeskog also had nothing but high praise for his longtime teammate.
"The one thing about EJ is he's going to be successful no matter what he decides to do in the future. Happy for him. Amazing career. Was able to represent his country on numerous occasions. First overall pick, and he had to adapt as he was playing. He was drafted as an offensive guy, and then some injuries, and he adapted. Became a really, really hard-working, dedicated defenseman that was just willing to pay the price and do whatever it took for the team to win." -Landeskog
Johnson will always be remembered as the heart and soul of the Avalanche, a player who gave so much to the franchise and capped his career with a Stanley Cup. Yet for him, the memories he cherishes most are the moments shared with his teammates.
Previously on Avalanche Insider
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