The Condor is waving goodbye.
The legendary Colorado Avalanche defenseman and fan favorite Erik Johnson has officially announced his retirement from the NHL, concluding a distinguished 17-season professional
career.
The first overall pick in the 2006 NHL Draft, the right shot defenseman leaves the game after playing in 1023 regular-season games across four teams—the St. Louis Blues, Colorado Avalanche, Buffalo Sabres, and Philadelphia Flyers. Over his career, he tallied 95 goals and 253 assists for 348 points. Johnson also competed in 57 career playoff games, recording five goals and eight assists, including participating in all 20 postseason contests during Colorado’s 2022 memorable Stanley Cup-winning run.
Johnson first arrived in Colorado on January 19, 2011 in a blockbuster deal which included Chris Stewart, Jay McClement and Kevin Shattenkirk. He brought sky-high potential to a blueline that needed help and ended up becoming one of the longest tenured Avalanche players. His 731 games is sixth all-time for the Colorado Avalanche franchise.
You could say Johnson was one of Colorado’s true OGs. He witnessed every high and low of the franchise’s journey — from his 48-point campaign in 2016–17 to reaching the mountain top as a Stanley Cup champion.
After brief stints in Buffalo and Philadelphia, once again Colorado traded for their beloved defenseman on March 7, 2025. This time just a minor league player Givani Smith was the return but it allowed Johnson to play 16 more games, including two playoff contests, to finish his career in an Avalanche sweater.
Though never celebrated for prolific offensive production, Johnson’s prodigious reach, hence The Condor, rendered him an indispensable defensive presence. His wingspan enabled him to intercept passes, deflect shots, and maintain impeccable positioning against even the most agile forwards. Equally esteemed for his physicality, leadership, and keen hockey intellect, Johnson became a linchpin of the Avalanche’s blue line, playing a pivotal role in returning the franchise to playoff contention after a prolonged period of underperformance. In the twilight of his career, he was revered not only as a seasoned mentor but also as a still-formidable competitor capable of shaping the game at both ends of the ice.
“After 18 incredible years in the NHL, I am retiring with a heart full of gratitude,” Johnson said. “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.”
Through a career defined by resilience, leadership, and unwavering dedication, Erik Johnson leaves a lasting legacy in the NHL and a profound impact on his teammates, fans, and the sport itself. The image of Johnson embracing Nathan MacKinnon moments after they captured the Stanley Cup will forever live in Avalanche lore.
While Colorado will certainly feel his absence on the ice, there is much to be grateful for. Johnson reportedly had multiple PTO offers from other organizations, yet his unwavering devotion to this team and its fans made it clear he could not imagine concluding his career elsewhere. If that alone does not speak volumes about his loyalty, nothing else need be said. EJ will forever be one of us, and we eagerly anticipate hopefully seeing him continue to share his insights on Altitude TV.