Veteran defenceman and former Stanley Cup Champion Erik Johnson has a new contract. After being traded by the Buffalo Sabres to the Philadelphia Flyers, he is now re-signing an extension with the Flyers. Johnson will be earning less than $2 million in average annual value it sounds like. In the later stages of his career, this is a great deal for him as he continues his playing career.
Hearing the #Flyers will be re-signing Erik Johnson today.
AAV is expected to come in at less than $2M.
— Anthony Di Marco (@ADiMarco25) July 1, 2024
Johnson Agrees on Contract With Flyers
What a year it has been for Johnson. After the Colorado Avalanche opted not to extend him, he made his way to the Sabres. He would be a mentor for the young talent on the roster. Although, with the Sabres out of the playoffs a move was made for him to go to a contender. The Flyers were in it until they weren’t and Johnson was fit for how they like to play. He is a big guy who is unafraid to be physical and plays more of a shutdown role. They had enough time to clearly identify a player like Johnson as someone to help them on defence.
When it comes to production, do not expect much as Johnson had six points in 67 games. He is a lock for an average of 15 minutes of total ice time and can be a serviceable depth defenceman. Johnson is a hit machine (143 hits) and is willing to block shots (97). He brings a winning pedigree and a veteran presence that is huge for a contending team.
What This Signing Means
The Johnson contract makes sense for both parties involved. Depth defenceman are always good to have in case of an injury. Johnson is not a bad player by any means and his style of play is great to have on the back end. He is a leader and was a huge part of the Avalanche winning the Stanley Cup in 2022.
In the later stages of his career, Johnson gets to keep playing the game he loves and gets another shot at a championship. He may not be the true number one defenceman he once was, but he is a serviceable player that can impact a roster. This is great for both sides and great to see him continue his playing days.
Main Photo: Danny Wild-USA TODAY Sports
