Avalanche sign defenseman Erik Johnson to seven-year extension

Defenseman Erik Johnson will remain with the Avalanche long-term after signing a seven-year extension.

Defenseman Erik Johnson will remain with the Avalanche long-term after signing a seven-year extension.

Colorado announced Tuesday that Johnson, 27, has been signed through the 2022–23 season.

Johnson scored a career-high 12 goals, tied for most on the team by a defenseman despite missing the season's final 34 games due to injury. He led the team in average ice time per game, ranked second among defenseman in points, and made his first All-Star game last season.

“Erik is a big part of the core of this team,” said Avalanche executive vice president/general manager Joe Sakic in a statement. “We felt it was important for our franchise to secure his rights for the long term as he enters the prime years of his career.”

• MUIR: Camp storylines: Prospects vying for NHL roster spots

Colorado acquired Johnson from St. Louis via trade in 2011. The first overall pick in the 2006 draft, Johnson has recorded 193 points in 456 career games.

“I’m humbled, honored and very excited to be part of this group for the next seven years,” said Johnson. “Thank you to the Kroenke family, Joe (Sakic), Patrick (Roy) and the entire Avalanche organization for their trust. And thank you to all the Avalanche fans for their support. I can’t wait to help bring the Stanley Cup back to Denver.”

- Jeremy Woo