Erik Johnson isn’t wasting any time transitioning from the ice to the broadcast booth. The former Colorado Avalanche defenseman, who announced his retirement earlier this month, has officially joined ESPN as an analyst for the 2025–26 NHL season.
The move marks another major step in Johnson’s fast-moving post-playing career. The 2022 Stanley Cup champion has already made guest appearances on the Avalanche’s local television broadcasts, drawing praise for his insight and engaging on-air presence. His addition to ESPN signals that his media career is poised to take off just as quickly as his NHL one began nearly two decades ago.
“As a kid I idolized Thorne, Clement, Melrose, Levy & Buccigross,” shared Johnson on social media. “To call games with some of them on ESPN is going to be surreal. Can’t wait, let’s go!”
For longtime Avalanche followers, Johnson’s emergence in media comes as little surprise. Over his 13 NHL seasons, teammates and coaches often pointed to his leadership, sharp hockey IQ, and approachable demeanor as key traits that would serve him well in broadcasting.
Drafted No. 1 overall by the St. Louis Blues in 2006, Johnson’s path to ESPN mirrors the perseverance that defined his playing career. After a midseason trade to Colorado in 2011, he became a cornerstone of the Avalanche blue line for more than a decade. He played a pivotal role during the team’s 2022 Stanley Cup run, providing veteran stability to a young, dynamic roster.
Johnson briefly left Colorado before returning ahead of the 2025 trade deadline, capping his career where he made his biggest mark. Following the season, he weighed professional tryout offers from several clubs before opting to retire.
Now, as part of ESPN’s national NHL coverage, Johnson will have the chance to share his perspective with a broader audience. His combination of humor, authenticity, and firsthand experience in high-pressure situations could make him one of the network’s most relatable new voices.
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