Right before the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline passed, the Philadelphia Flyers acquired veteran defenseman Erik Johnson from the Buffalo Sabres in exchange for a 2024 fourth-round pick. With the Flyers trading Sean Walker to the Colorado Avalanche and still being in the playoff hunt at that point of the season, they added Johnson to help their depth on the right side.
Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
In 17 games with the Flyers following the trade, Johnson posted two goals, one assist, 29 blocks, and 50 hits. Clearly, GM Daniel Briere liked what he saw from Johnson, as he brought him back on a one-year, $1 million contract this offseason. While this was a pretty minor move by the Flyers this summer, it has the potential to be a good one.
While Johnson is no longer the top-four defenseman he was during his prime years, he is still a serviceable bottom-pairing defenseman who plays a heavy game. In addition, with the Flyers rebuilding, they need veterans who can help mentors their young players. This is something Johnson, a previous alternate captain and Stanley Cup champion, should thrive at with the Flyers next season.
When looking at the Flyers' current defensive group, Johnson should compete for a spot on their bottom pairing and penalty kill. However, even if he ends up being the club's seventh defenseman, he should be a useful option for their blueline.
Nevertheless, seeing what kind of season Johnson puts together from here will be interesting. When noting that he is sticking around for only $1 million, there's truly no risk in him remaining a Flyer.
