Report: Avs dump fan favorite ahead of free agency

According to multiple online reports, the Colorado Avalanche will NOT be re-signing veteran defenseman Erik Johnson, ending 13 years with the franchise.

Check it out:

The 35 year old former 1st overall pick (2006 NHL Entry Draft) put up eight assists in 63 games with the Avs this past offseason. He's been a fixture on the Avs' blueline since 2011, highlighted by a Stanley Cup victory last post-season. Injuries and inconsistency have limited his availability and his impact in recent seasons though, so I wouldn't be surprised if this is the end of the road for Johnson.

Then again, I could see someone taking a chance on him much like the Chicago Blackhawks did last offseason with former Avs bllueliner Jack Johnson. In the end Jack Johnson ended up back with the Avs and the same could ultimately wind up happening with Erik Johnson.

If this is indeed the end of the road for Johnson though, he'll end his career with 88 goals and 337 points in 920 games split between the St. Louis Blues and the Avalanche.