Erik Johnson is retiring from the NHL, it was announced on Wednesday.
Johnson spent 12 years with the Avalanche from 2011 to 2023 and was reacquired at the 2025 trade deadline. He won the Stanley Cup with the Avs in 2022.
“After 18 incredible years in the NHL, I am retiring with a heart full of gratitude,” Johnson said in a statement. “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.”
In total, Johnson spent 14 of his 17 NHL seasons with the Avalanche. The first trade, which was announced late at night in 2011, saw Erik Johnson, Jay McClement, and a first-round draft pick come to Colorado from St. Louis for Chris Stewart, Kevin Shattenkirk, and a second-round pick.
It was a blockbuster deal at the time as it came just five years after Johnson was selected No. 1 overall in the 2006 draft by the Blues.
Johnson was the only member of the 2022 Stanley Cup championship roster to have been with the team longer than Gabe Landeskog. The captain was drafted a few months later.
“To my teammates, coaches, and staff: your support, camaraderie, and dedication shaped my career,” Johnson said. “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.”
