Erik Johnson, one of the great members of the Colorado Avalanche over the last 15 years, has called it a career.
The Avs announced Johnson’s retirement on Wednesday morning, a little less than a week before the 2025-26 NHL season is set to begin.
Erik Johnson, you are one of a kind.
Thank you for all that you’ve done in burgundy and blue, and congrats on your retirement. pic.twitter.com/eePT6ox09G
— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) October 1, 2025
“After 18 incredible years in the NHL, I am retiring with a heart full of gratitude,” Johnson said in a press release from the team. “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.”
Erik Johnson played in 731 career games with the Avs, tallying 69 goals and 179 assists, good for 248 points. He joined the organization all the way back in February of 2011. He saw the highs and the lows, eventually winning a championship with Colorado in 2022.
Johnson bounced from the Flyers to the Sabres after that, before being traded back to the Avalanche late last season. Ultimately, he finished his career in burgundy and blue.
The defenseman was a former No. 1 overall pick by the Blues in the 2006 NHL Draft, nearly making it 20 full years as a professional hockey player. In all, he spent parts of 14 seasons with the Avalanche. Only Adam Foote (17) played more seasons among Avalanche / Nordiques defensemen and only Foote and Joe Sakic (20) among all Colorado / Quebec skaters.
“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,” Erik Johnson said.
There was some speculation this summer Johnson might look to keep playing, but clearly he felt this was the best decision for him and his family.
We’ll see what’s next for Johnson, but with his bubbly personality and love for hockey, it wouldn’t be a shock to see him join the media in some capacity.
Erik Johnson had an incredible career on the ice, and his next chapter should also be special. All Avalanche fans certainly wish him well in retirement.
