News:Erik Johnson (wrist) will not play Friday against the Coyotes, Mike Chambers of the Denver Post reports.
Analysis:Erik Johnson will miss his sixth straight game Friday, but there is a glimmer of hope that he could return and play in the team's season finale Saturday. The game Saturday means nothing to the Avalanche, being well out of the postseason chase, so Johnson may sit if he does not want to risk further injury heading into the offseason.
News:Erik Johnson (wrist) did not suit up for Tuesday's game against the Coyotes.
Analysis:Erik Johnson is still dealing with a sore wrist, so he was held out for the fifth straight game Tuesday. Johnson remains day-to-day, but since the Avalanche are out of the playoff hunt, it remains to be seen whether he will play in either of the team's remaining two games.
News:Erik Johnson (wrist) will not play in Friday's game against the Oilers, according to the Denver Post.
Analysis:Erik Johnson has not played since April 11 when he sustained the injury. With the Avs out of the playoff hunt, it could give the team a little less urgency to push him back in the lineup. He still should be considered day-to-day.
News:Erik Johnson (wrist) did not participate in Wednesday's optional practice, the Denver Post reports.
Analysis:Erik Johnson hasn't played in a game since April 11. He is considered to be day-to-day at this point, but it is questionable as to whether or not he will be active for another game before the end of the season.
News:Erik Johnson (wrist) will not play Monday against the Blue Jackets, Adrian Dater of the Denver Post reports.
Analysis:Erik Johnson was unable to practice Sunday and will miss his second consecutive game after suffering a wrist injury April 11.
News:Erik Johnson (wrist) left Thursday's game in the third period and did not return.
Analysis:Erik Johnson was unable to return to the game, shwoing signs that this injury may be more serious than it first seemed. Johnson will have his wrist evaluated sometime Friday, where we will learn about the extent of the injury.
News:Erik Johnson (wrist) is doubtful for Saturday's game against the Canucks, Adrian Dater of the Denver Post reports.
Analysis:Erik Johnson is being evaluated Friday, but the injury seems like it will keep him out of action in the near future.
News:Erik Johnson returned to the lineup Friday after missing 11 games with a concussion.
Analysis:Erik Johnson provided a boost on the back line Friday as they held the red-hot Blackhawks to only two goals. He picked up an assist and recorded a stellar plus-4 rating in the 6-2 win.
News:Erik Johnson (concussion) will play Friday against the Blackhawks, Adrian Dater of the Denver Post reports.
Analysis:Erik Johnson will be in action Friday for the first time since Feb. 11, so Tyson Barrie will head to the press box as a healthy scratch. It's good to hear Johnson's shaken the cobwebs, but he posted just one point (an assist) in 11 games prior to the injury and remains a marginal fantasy option.
News:Erik Johnson (concussion) will not play against the Blackhawks on Wednesday, Mike Chambers of the Denver Post reports.
Analysis:Erik Johnson hasn't played since February 11, but could return to the lineup Friday, when the Avs take on the Blackhawks again in the second game of their home-and-home series.
News:Erik Johnson (concussion) won't play Tuesday against the Red Wings, Mike Chambers of the Denver Post reports.
Analysis: Neither will Ryan Wilson, but the duo has not been ruled out for Wednesday's game against the Blackhawks.
News:Erik Johnson (concussion) could return Tuesday, Mike Chambers of the Denver Post reports.
Analysis:Erik Johnson has not played since February 11, where he sustained a concussion from a big hit from the Coyotes' Martin Hanzal. Both Ryan Wilson and Johnson skated during Sunday morning's practice. Johnson hopes to return Tuesday against Detroit, but it may be later in the week until he is able to go.
News:Erik Johnson (concussion) practiced in a non-contact capacity Saturday, Denver Post writer Adrian Dater reports.
Analysis: Concussions are tricky to manage, so the fact that Erik Johnson is back on the ice doesn't necessarily mean much, particularly given that he's still not practicing in a contact capacity.
News:Erik Johnson (concussion) skated on his own Wednesday, the Denver Post reports.
Analysis:Erik Johnson had not skated since suffering a concussion on February 11, so this is a promising sign. However, there's really no set timetable for concussion recovery, so it's possible the blueliner could still miss a lot more games.
News:Erik Johnson (head) will not travel with the team on their three game road trip, Mike Chambers of the Denver Post reports.
Analysis: This means Erik Johnson will miss at least the team's next three games. Johnson has been able to skate, but has yet to practice with the team.
News:Erik Johnson (head) was evaluated Wednesday but did not practice. He is out indefinitely.
Analysis:Erik Johnson sustained a head injury in Monday's loss against the Coyotes. Matt Hunwick is expected to return to the lineup Thursday and would take Johnson's place on the top defensive pairing.
News:Erik Johnson (upper body) did not practice Tuesday, Mike Chambers of the Denver Post reports.
Analysis:Erik Johnson left Monday's game after a hit from the Coyotes Martin Hanzel. No official announcement on his status will be made until the team reconvenes Wednesday.
News:Erik Johnson left Monday's game with an apparent shoulder or chest injury, Mike Chambers of the Denver Post reports.
Analysis:Erik Johnson is the number one option on defense for the Avalanche. There was no official report on his status, so he will likely be evaluated Tuesday. The struggling Avs can't afford any more injuries, especially to key players like Johnson.
News:Erik Johnson will play Wednesday night against the Ducks, The Denver Post reports.
Analysis:Erik Johnson missed practice Tuesday with a bruised foot, but will play in Wednesday's contest with Anaheim. However, the blueliner is off to a slow start this season with only one assist in nine games.
News:Erik Johnson (foot) is questionable for Wednesday's game against the Ducks, The Denver Post reports.
Analysis: To date, Erik Johnson has made a minimal fantasy impact for the Avalanche. In nine games this season, the first overall pick in the 2006 NHL Draft is averaging 21:26 of ice time per game, but has managed only one point and four penalty minutes.
News:Erik Johnson signed a four-year, $15 million extension with the Avalanche on Monday, The Denver Post reports.
Analysis:Erik Johnson accrued 26 points (22 assists) and 94 blocks in 73 games last season for the Avs. The defenseman will be expected to anchor Colorado's first-line for the next four years.
Colorado's Johnson Picks Up Two Points In Win Friday
News:Erik Johnson had a pair of assists in a 4-1 Colorado victory over Calgary on Friday night. He finished the evening with a plus-3 rating.
Analysis: He had been pointless in 14 straight games heading into Friday night's contest so these points come at an important time for a Colorado team desperately trying to clinch a playoff spot.
News:Erik Johnson (back) is expected to play against San Jose on Monday, Denver Post writer Mike Chambers reports.
Analysis:Erik Johnson's 20 points on the year are a disappointment, but he'll be there if you need him Monday.
News:Erik Johnson missed his third consecutive game Saturday night due to back spasms, Adrian Dater of the Denver Post reports.
Analysis:Erik Johnson, who remains day-to-day, was once again replaced in the Avs' lineup by rookie Tyson Barrie.
News:Erik Johnson (back spasms) will miss Thursday's game against the Coyotes, Denver Post writer Mike Chambers reports.
Analysis:Erik Johnson, who continues to deal with back spasms, remains day-to-day, as he is slated to miss his second straight game Thursday.
News:Erik Johnson (back spasms) is questionable for Thursday's game at Phoenix, according to the Denver Post.
Analysis:Erik Johnson did not practice Wednesday, leaving his status for Thursday's game seriously in doubt. Keep him on your bench.
News:Erik Johnson missed Tuesday's game against Calgary with back spasms, the Denver Post reports.
Analysis: The team hopes Erik Johnson can return to practice Wednesday, so it sounds like more of a day-to-day issue versus a long-term injury. More as we know it.
News:Erik Johnson (knee) will play against Edmonton on Saturday, Denver Post writer Mike Chambers reports.
Analysis:Erik Johnson has consistency issues, but he'll be there if you need him Saturday.
News:Erik Johnson (knee) is questionable for Saturday's game against Edmonton, the Denver Post reports.
Analysis:Erik Johnson injured the knee Thursday and was unable to practice Friday.
News:Erik Johnson (back) is expected to play against Columbus on Friday, Denver Post writer Adrian Dater reports.
Analysis:Erik Johnson had four points (three goals) in the four games prior to when he suffered the injury Wednesday, but history says he's due to cool off soon. He has been feast-or-famine all year.
News:Erik Johnson is questionable for Friday's game at Columbus due to back spasms, according to the Denver Post.
Analysis:Erik Johnson was forced out of Wednesday's game in the first period due to the ailment and might not suit up for Friday's game. However, his condition is not believed to be serious as he is travelling with the team, and he will reportedly test things out at Friday's morning skate. As a precaution, the Avs have recalled Tyson Barrie from AHL Lake Erie in case Johnson can't go.
News:Erik Johnson is day-to-day with an undisclosed injury, Adrian Dater of the Denver Post reports.
Analysis: We'll update further when we know the nature of the injury.
News: Avs coach Joe Sacco has been impressed with Erik Johnson's play of late, according to the Denver Post.
Analysis: "His progression has been a lot better," Sacco said following the Avs' 3-2 OT loss to St. Louis on Saturday. "He got off to a tough start [at the beginning of the season], but he's picked it up lately, no question." Erik Johnson, who scored just his second goal of the season against the Blues on Saturday, currently has a minus-7 rating, however that's about half of what it was a couple of months ago, so he's improving defensively. As a result, Sacco is showing more faith in him by increasing his ice time - on Saturday, Johnson played 22:57 against the Blues, which led all Avs skaters. Overall, Johnson should continue to play a top-four role on the Colorado blue line, but don't expect a huge spike in his point totals - the Avs want him to become a better defender before he starts focusing on putting the puck in the net.
News:Erik Johnson snapped a 22-game goal drought with his second goal of the season in Saturday's loss to the Blues. It came on the power play.
Analysis: It was also his first point in nine games and 20th in 51 games on the year. He certainly won't match his sophomore total of 39 points this season and we're beginning to wonder if he isn't just another Jay Bouwmeester. Not that there's anything wrong with that but it pretty much sucks in most fantasy formats.
News:Erik Johnson failed to register a point during Tuesday's 5-2 win over Chicago, the sixth consecutive game he has been held off the scoresheet.
Analysis:Erik Johnson continues to skate on the Avs' first defensive pairing with Kyle Quincey, but it's becoming more and more evident he is not the offensive, puck-moving defenseman he was projected to be when he was drafted first overall by St. Louis in 2006. Johnson's points tend to come in bunches, followed by very long stretches where he completely disappears - a tendency that will cause fantasy owners to pull their hair out. Outside of very deep formats, avoid using this guy unless you absolutely have no other options.
News:Erik Johnson posted an assist for the second-consecutive game, doing so in Monday's loss to Phoenix.
Analysis: Johson's numbers have predictably been streaky, as they have been throughout his career. There are always going to be higher expectations for Erik Johnson, being a first overall pick, but owners had been expecting more than 18 points through 41 games.
News:Erik Johnson (hand) will return to the lineup Thursday against Nashville, Denver Post.
Analysis:Erik Johnson, who suffered the injury Jan. 7 at St. Louis, had a four-game scoring streak back in mid-December (1G, 4A) but has been held off the scoresheet in eight of nine games since then. Johnson's frustrating lack of consistency - especially as a former first-overall draft pick - makes it very difficult to recommend him for fantasy purposes outside of very deep leagues. Health-wise, it appears safe to start him, but be prepared for the lengthy scoring droughts to continue.
Avs' Johnson (Hand) Questionable For Rematch With Preds
News:Erik Johnson (hand) will be re-evaulated prior to the second game of the Avs' home-and-home series with the Preds on Thursday, according to Denver Post.
Analysis:Erik Johnson, who suffered the injury two games ago against St. Louis, practiced with his teammates Wednesday and will travel with the team to Nashville. There's a chance he could play Thursday if everything checks out, but he will likely be a game-time decision.
News:Erik Johnson (hand) won't play against Nashville on Tuesday, the Denver Post reports.
Analysis: Colorado doesn't seem especially worried about the injury, so a Thursday return isn't out of the question.
News:Erik Johnson (hand) did not practice Monday and is considered day-to-day, according to the Denver Post.
Analysis: At the very least, we expect Erik Johnson will miss Tuesday's home game against the Predators, but could be available for the second game of the home-and-home series Thursday in Nashville.
News:Erik Johnson suffered a hand injury in the first period of Saturday's game and didn't return according to the Denver Post.
Analysis: Originally the team thought he would be able to return to the ice later in the game but that never happened. He will be re-examined Sunday and his status will be updated then. Consider him day to day for now. Erik Johnson was coming off one of his best games of the season in which he recorded two assists and a plus-3 rating.
News: Following a four-game points streak in December (1G, 4A), Erik Johnson has gone pointless in his last seven games.
Analysis: With just one goal and 13 helpers this season, Erik Johnson is currently on pace for 30 points, far below what a former first-overall draft pick should be registering. Furthermore, he leads the Avs in giveaways with 29, and his plus-minus rating of -12 ties him for worst on the team with Jan Hejda. Johnson no longer plays on one of the Avs' top two defensive pairings, and coach Joe Sacco has even removed him from the first power play unit. It's getting harder and harder to recommend him for fantasy purposes - avoid him unless he shows signs of turning his game around.
News:Erik Johnson's first goal of the season was the game-winner as Colorado beat Washington on Saturday, 2-1. He assisted on the Avs' other tally.
Analysis: There's more good news: He finished the night plus-2, turning around a troubling trend of negative ratings. (His last game with a positive rating was November 4.) Even with this, he's minus-12 on the campaign.
News:Erik Johnson is listed as probable for Sunday's game against Detroit, according to Adrian Dater of the Denver Post.
Analysis:Erik Johnson originally injured his groin during a "bag skate" practice Nov. 21 following a 4-1 loss to San Jose the day before. He's missed five games since but from the sound of it, should be good to go Sunday against the Wings. Keep an eye on his ice time and PP duties, as the Avs have since recalled rookie Stefan Elliott from the AHL, and Elliott has played very well in Johnson's absence.
News:Erik Johnson (groin) will not return to the ice for Friday's game against the Blues, the Denver Post reports.
Analysis: The Avs were hoping to get Erik Johnson back Friday night, but he is still dealing with some soreness in his groin and will remain on injured reserve. Colorado plays again Sunday, so expect an update if Johnson's status changes this weekend.
News:Erik Johnson (groin) is likely to be re-activated later this week, the Denver Post reports.
Analysis: This is good news for fantasy owners, but keep in mind that Erik Johnson could find himself challenged for ice time once he returns. Stefan Elliott, who was recalled from AHL Lake Erie to fill in for Johnson, has two goals in two games since being called up, and is also seeing first-line PP duty. Johnson will need to step up his game and prove he can carry the load defensively for the struggling Avs.
Avs' Johnson (Groin) Not Assured Of Spot In Lineup Once Healthy
News:Erik Johnson (groin) could find himself on the bench even once he's healthy enough to play, the Denver Post reports.
Analysis: With rookie Stefan Elliott taking Erik Johnson's spot in the lineup and playing well - he scored the game-winning goal Saturday against Edmonton - Johnson could find himself the odd man out when he returns. "At that point we should have eight healthy defensemen, and we'll have to make some hard decisions at that time, as far as who's in the lineup and who's not in the lineup," coach Joe Sacco said. "Just like always, it will be based on merit. The guys that are playing well that deserve to stay in the lineup will deserve to be in there. We'll figure it out as we go along." The fact that Johnson hasn't been able score a goal all season - something Elliott did in his very first game - doesn't bode well for him.
News:Erik Johnson (groin) was placed on the injured reserve list Saturday, the Denver Post reports.
Analysis:Erik Johnson was expected to miss Saturday's game, but this makes it official. According to the Post, Johnson is expected to miss one or two more games beyond Saturday. Stefan Elliott has been recalled to take Johnson's place and could be a difference-making pickup for some owners.
News:Erik Johnson (groin) did not practice Friday and is doubtful for Saturday's game against Edmonton, the Denver Post reports.
Analysis: There is no timetable for Erik Johnson's return at this point - make sure you keep him on your bench and find a healthier alternative instead.
News:Erik Johnson, who missed Wednesday's game against the Canucks, is out with a groin pull, according to the Denver Post.
Analysis: Simply put, Erik Johnson has not been the player the Avs thought they were getting when they acquired him from St. Louis last season. He has just nine assists in 21 games this season and has yet to score a goal. Furthermore, his minus-12 rating is second-worst in the NHL, just slightly ahead of teammate Jan Hejda's minus-16. If you're a fantasy owner, Johnson's injury actually gives you a good excuse to put him on your bench if you had been holding off doing so. Consider him day-to-day for now, but don't be in a rush to put him back in your lineup even when he does return.
News:Erik Johnson was held off the scoresheet in Wednesday's 4-1 loss to Phoenix, his third consecutive game without a point. After starting the season with five assists in his first six games, he now has just one in his last six, and has yet to score a goal.
Analysis:Erik Johnson continues to log heavy minutes on the power play (averaging roughly 4½ minutes over the past three game), but has seen his overall ice time drop to about 21 minutes per game compared to 24-25 minutes last season. It could be that coach Joe Sacco is getting frustrated with Johnson's lack of production, and +/- rating of minus-8 probably doesn't help much, either. Don't be surprised if the Avs decide to call up one of their other young, puck-moving defensemen from AHL Lake Erie, such as Stefan Elliott or Tyson Barrie, in order to help jump-start the offense from the back end. Plain and simple, Johnson just isn't getting the job done.
News:Erik Johnson posted a power-play assist in Monday's win over Toronto, his fifth assist in three games.
Analysis:Erik Johnson is showing the ability to contribute in all situations and is benefiting from Colorado's offensive onslaught in recent days. Odds are the torrid pace will fall off a bit for Johnson, but talent has never been an issue with him, just his attitude and consistency.
News:Erik Johnson picked up his first points of the year in Thursday's blowout of the Senators, assisting on a pair of power-play goals.
Analysis: Even if it was a blowout against a bad team, it's good to see Erik Johnson produce with the man advantage, as he's a major key to Colorado's power play. The former first overall pick had gone scoreless in the first three games of the year.
News: Johnson has altered his workout regimen this offseason, hoping a stronger lower body will lead to a career year in 2011-12, the Denver Post reports.
Analysis: "In the past, I really bulked up a lot and was a little too top-heavy," Johnson said. "I've improved my footwork and foot speed. I think I've become more explosive and more powerful all around. I got a new trainer this summer and have been working a lot with (strength coach) Rob McLean here in Colorado." Keep a watchful eye on Johnson as he looks to improve a defensive unit that averaged a league-worst 3.50 goals per game last season.
News: Johnson was a late scratch from Friday's lineup with an undisclosed head injury, the Associated Press reports.
Analysis: He's questionable for the regular season finale Sunday according to the Denver Post, so Johnson owners will want to have another blueliner at the ready in case he's unable to play.
News: Johnson assisted on all three Colorado goals in Thursday's loss to Toronto.
Analysis: He's got a shiny 10 points in 15 games since being dealt to the Avalanche, but even with Thursday's plus-2, he's still minus-6 with Colorado.
News: Johnson shook off the effects of an ankle bruise, which he sustained Thursday, to skate 30 shifts in Colorado's shootout win over Edmonton on Saturday. He didn't score, but he finished the night plus-2 and was nabbed for a fighting major.
Analysis: The penalty minutes are a nice bonus, but don't expect him to collect bushels of them. He has just 13 PIMs in 13 games this season.
Avs' Johnson (Ankle) Expected Back In Lineup Saturday
News: Johnson (leg/ankle) is expected to play Saturday against Edmonton, reports the Denver Post.
Analysis: Johnson took a puck off his leg blocking a shot Thursday against Calgary, but subsequent x-rays have come up negative, suggesting he has nothing more than a bad bruise. The Avs have won just one game since Johnson's arrival in Denver. He has six points (3G, 3A) in 12 games over that span.
News: Johnson left Thursday's loss to the Flames after blocking a shot in the first period, the Calgary Herald reports.
Analysis: This is just the latest in a string of bad luck injuries to the Avs' defensive corps.
Johnson Skates A Lot, Scores Little, In Avs Debut Saturday
News: In his first game with Colorado on Saturday, Johnson led all skaters in ice time with 26:44 including 4:37 on the power play. However, he finished the game with no points and a minus-1 rating as the Sharks blanked the Avs, 4-0.
Analysis: It was a tough night for any player to be making their debut, as the Avs' losing streak hit the 10-game mark. Meanwhile, back in St. Louis, the guy the Avs gave up to get Johnson - Chris Stewart - was busy making it look like the Blues got the better part of the deal by scoring two goals against the Ducks. The Avs are in complete disarray, to be sure, but all that means is Johnson is going to have to work twice as hard to prove his worth. The Avs will pull out of their skid eventually, and the points will for Johnson will come, but his best years are probably a couple of seasons away at this point.
News: Johnson is expected to be in the Avs lineup Saturday against San Jose, reports the Denver Post.
Analysis: The Avs are hoping a change of scenery will be good for Johnson, who was somewhat of a disappointment for the Blues since they drafted him first overall in 2006. He scored 39 points last season after missing all of 2008-09 with a knee injury. With just 19 points in 55 games this season, it's clear the Blues were expecting more out of him. Now with Colorado, it will be up to Johnson to prove he was worth being drafted ahead of the likes of Jordan Staal (second), Jonathan Toews (third), Nicklas Backstrom (fourth) and Phil Kessel (fifth). He'll be given every opportunity to be the Avs' top defenseman and should see plenty of minutes on the power play.
News: The Blues have traded Johnson and Jay McClement to Colorado for Chris Stewart and Kevin Shattenkirk, according to Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Colorado also receives a conditional first-rounder for either 2011 or 2012 while St. Louis receives a conditional second-rounder in 2011 or 2012.
Analysis: The deadline deals are certainly getting out of the gate early this year. Johnson's production has slipped this season, so we imagine the trade is good for his near-term value, as he'll probably be a main power play guy with the Avs, and the new setting probably won't hurt.
News: Johnson, who lost three teeth earlier this week, skated 27 shifts for 19:32 of ice time in Friday's win over Edmonton.
Analysis: The ice time is a few minutes less than he normally plays, but it was a relatively full game for Johnson. He had an assist and two shots on goal, while blocking one shot and was credited with one hit.
News: Johnson (mouth) is expected to play against Edmonton on Friday, St. Louis Post-Dispatch writer Jeremy Rutherford reports.
Analysis: If Johnson is part of your lineup, he should be good to go for Friday.
News: Johnson was struck by a puck in the mouth and lost some teeth during Monday's practice, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.
Analysis: The incident occurred toward the end of practice and Johnson did not return to the ice after heading to the locker room. His status for Tuesday's game against Colorado is not known.
News: Johnson collected two months' worth of penalty minutes in the Blues' game against Columbus on Saturday. With 23 seconds left to play and the game decided, he was booked for a 10-minute misconduct and for a double-minor for roughing.
Analysis: This is patently an anomaly; Johnson had just 23 PIMs all season before the puck dropped on this contest. Indeed, this is just his second game all season with more than two penalty minutes. Don't expect the PIMs to arrive in bushel baskets.
News: Johnson scored the game-winning goal in the third period of the Blues' 2-1 win over the Kings on Tuesday. Earlier, Johnson had to be taken to the locker room late in the first period when he was hit on the wrist/hand by a shot, according to Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, but he was back on the bench for the start of the second period.
Analysis: Johnson now has points in four straight games, including goals in the previous two. He also had four hits and played 23:03 on a night when St. Louis lost Carlo Colaiacovo early in the first period.
News: Johnson scored his fourth goal of the season in Saturday night's loss to the Sharks.
Analysis: The former first-round pick has come under fire of late, with the general sense being that he should be more developed as two-way player at this stage of his career. He's responded with points in three straight games and some pretty good work on the defensive end.
News: Johnson scored just his second goal of the season, and first on the power play, in St. Louis' win over Detroit on Thursday. The goal broke a two-month goal-scoring drought.
Analysis: Not only are the Blues' forwards struggling to score, but the club's leading offensive blueliner is off last season's 10-goal/39-point pace. Johnson's comfortable moving the puck into opposing zones and has a cannon from the point so he's encouraged to, and does, put pucks on net -- fifth on team with 69 shots. There's reason and hope to expect an improvement on his 2.9 scoring percentage.
News: After missing a game due to a knee injury, Johnson skated a full complement of 33 shifts in St. Louis's game against San Jose Saturday.
Analysis: Don't expect scoring miracles, but he's safe to reactivate.
News: As expected, Johnson (knee) will be in the lineup Saturday against San Jose, the Alton Telegraph's Louie Korac reports.
Analysis: We wouldn't be surprised if his ice time was slightly limited in his first game back, but assuming he doesn't suffer any setbacks, he'll be safe to deploy in fantasy leagues.
News: Johnson (knee) will likely play Saturday against San Jose, the Alton Telegraph's Louie Korac reports.
Analysis: This hasn't been confirmed yet (and is a much quicker return than some of the initial estimates), so you may want to hold off on activating Johnson until we actually see him in action. However, it sounds like it won't be long until he's back at full speed, so he should be safe to use in weekly lineup formats next week.
News: Johnson (knee) practiced Friday and could still play Saturday in San Jose, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.
Analysis: He's day-to-day with a sprain so while he's no lock to suit up against the Sharks, Johnson should be back much sooner than expected after the initial outlook regarding his injury indicated a potential season-ending ailment.
News: An MRI of Johnson's right knee revealed a sprain and the defenseman will be listed as day-to-day, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports. Johnson limped off the ice Wednesday night in Detroit and missed Thursday's win over L.A., but has not been ruled out of Saturday's home game against the Sharks.
Analysis: This is certainly good news for the Blues, who feared worse when they saw Johnson favoring the right knee which is the knee he underwent surgery on in 2008. He'll receive treatment Friday and may even test out the knee.
News: Johnson, who suffered a knee injury during Wednesday's loss to the Red Wings, will not play Thursday night against the Kings, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.
Analysis: The Blues aren't willing to commit to anything past Thursday night's game until a doctor evaluates Johnson. The injury appears to be to his right knee, which is the one he had surgery on to repair a torn ligament two years ago.
News: Johnson suffered a right knee injury in Wednesday's game against the Red Wings, Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.
Analysis: The extent of the injury is not yet known, Johnson will not be able to return to Wednesday's game. Expect the Blues to update Johnson's status following the conclusion of the game.
News: Johnson (lower body) skated Thursday morning and looks fine, the Alton Telegraph's Louie Korac reports.
Analysis: Johnson gave the Blues a scare when he limped off the ice during Wednesday's practice, but he should be ready to go for Thursday's game against San Jose. Feel free to keep him in your lineup.
News: Johnson limped off the ice after Wednesday's practice, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.
Analysis: Blues coach Davis Payne said Johnson bumped up against another player during practice and will have to see how it responds Thursday, but general manager Doug Armstrong said that Johnson is fine.
News: Johnson's overtime goal against the Penguins gave St. Louis a 1-0 win at home Saturday night. It's his first tally of the 2010-11 campaign.
Analysis: He's made back-to-back scoresheets after a four-game dry spell. He's not yet an elite-level offensive defenseman, but at 22, he has the time and the talent to grow into one.
News: Johnson (hip flexor) had an assist in St. Louis' win over Philadelphia on Saturday.
Analysis: The hip should not be of concern as Johnson led all Blues' skaters with 22:32 of ice time. The assist came on the power play, the unit on which Johnson registered 15 of his 39 points last season.
News: Johnson (hip flexor) participated in Thursday morning's skate, the Alton Telegraph's Louie Korac reports.
Analysis: Johnson will likely be available for Saturday's season opener against Philadelphia.
News: Johnson (hip flexor) is expected to skate on his own Wednesday and rejoin the Blues' practice session Thursday, the Belleville News Democrat reports.
Analysis: The Blues aren't practicing Wednesday, so the earliest Johnson can participate in a practice is Thursday. He was scratched from a preseason game last weekend because of the injury and hasn't skated with the club since. St. Louis coach Davis Payne anticipates having him for Saturday's season opener against Philadelphia.
News: Blues general manager Doug Armstrong said Johnson (hip flexor) should be ready to go when the regular season kicks off Saturday night against Philadelphia, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.
Analysis: Johnson was a surprise scratch from a weekend game against Dallas, becoming the third member of the Blues to be dealing with a strained hip flexor. With five days before opening night, the Blues training staff are confident all three injured players (Johnson, Carlo Colaiacovo and Andy McDonald) will be ready to skate against the Flyers.
News: Johnson sat out Saturday's preseason game against Dallas with a hip-flexor injury, the Belleville News Democrat reports.
Analysis: Johnson is the third Blues' defender to get hurt in preseason.
News: Johnson said he intends to take more shots this season than he did in 2009-10, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.
Analysis: Johnson finished off last season with 14 points (six goals) in the final 26 games and he appears to be getting comfortable offensively. "My shot total has increased each year I played," Johnson said. "I will try to do that again this year. "Shoot the puck and good things happen. Shooting is never a bad thing. By shooting the puck, you open up passing lanes." He's a fixture on the first-unit power play, where he had 15 points (six goals, nine assists) last year. With the team needing to find offense from somewhere, Johnson is in position to build on last year's totals.
News: The St. Louis Blues have re-signed defenseman Erik Johnson to a two-year contract. The 22-year-old Johnson, the first overall pick of the 2006 draft, set career bests and led Blues defensemen in points (39), goals (10), assists (29) and shots (186) last season. He agreed to the contract extension on Monday. Johnson has 72 points in 148 games with the Blues.
Analysis: Johnson bounced back in a big way in 2009-10 after a freak accident robbed him of his 2008-09 season as he sat out with a torn ACL. However, it wasn't all smooth sailing. Johnson got off to a fast start, totaling four goals and 18 points in his first 25 games, before hitting a wall midseason. He got into rhythm late under coach Davis Payne, who replaced Andy Murray in-season, as he totaled 14 points (six goals) in his final 26 games. Johnson continues to be a developing star. He could emerge as an elite Fantasy blueliner in 2010-11, but you will want to draft him as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 Fantasy defenseman.
News: The St. Louis Blues stayed in the playoff picture for at least another day. Erik Johnson's power-play goal in overtime saw to that. "It's do or die for us every game," the defenseman said after scoring his 10th of the season with 1:01 to go for a 2-1 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets on Monday night. "We're not out of it yet. We're going to keep fighting every game, win every game we can." A holding call on Marc Methot with 1:43 to go in overtime opened the door for the Blues, and Johnson scored his 10th of the season on a slap shot from the point.
Analysis: Johnson has scored three times in his last five games. Johnson has four goals and nine points in 17 games out of the Olympic break. He seems to have regained his offensive touch after battling a midseason slump. The good news is that Johnson hasn't suffered a setback with his surgically-repaired knee and will continue to be a solid draft choice heading into 2010-11.
News: Blues D Erik Johnson scored his first goal since Nov. 30 in St. Louis' loss to the Avalanche on Monday.
Analysis: Johnson was great during the first two months of this season but then hit a wall to start December. We're not sure what his problem has been, but he's only worth starting in pretty deep leagues until he starts to find his offensive rhythm again.
News: Blues D Erik Johnson has gone 31 games without a goal and has just seven assists in that span after 18 points in 25 games.
Analysis: Johnson got off to a fine start coming off major knee surgery, but he has been mired in a funk since December. He can still be a high-end Fantasy option, but Johnson has definitely lost some Fantasy appeal during his slump.
News: Blues D Erik Johnson, who had missed one game with an upper-body injury, assisted in his return to action Saturday vs. Columbus.
Analysis: Johnson got off to a fine start coming off major knee surgery, but he has been mired in a funk since December. He can still be a high-end Fantasy option, but Johnson has definitely lost some Fantasy appeal during his slump.
News: D Erik Johnson (upper body) was a surprise scratch for the Blues on Thursday against the Oilers. He was deleted from the lineup during the pregame warmups.
Analysis: The Olympic-bound Johnson hasn't scored since November and has only six points in his last 27 games. We would like to blame it on the injury, but we doubt it has been lingering that long. Johnson got off to a fine start coming off major knee surgery, but he has been mired in a funk since December. He can still be a high-end Fantasy option, but Johnson has definitely lost some Fantasy appeal during his slump. Keep tabs on his progress leading up to Week 18 (Feb. 1-7).
News: Blues D Erik Johnson returned to the lineup on Thursday against the Canucks after being a healthy scratch Tuesday. He is still pointless in nine games.
Analysis: Johnson had 21 points (four goals) in his first 30 games this season. But he doesn't have a point and he's a minus-4 in his last nine games. The move to the press box on Tuesday was clearly a motivational tactic by coach Andy Murray, unfortunately, it did not snap Johnson out of his funk. You can bench Johnson if you want in Fantasy, but don't drop him. He should rebound and Johnson is a player with high-end Fantasy potential.
News:The Sports Xchange reports not that long ago, Blues defenseman Erik Johnson was the team's leading scorer. On Tuesday, he was a healthy scratch. Johnson's play has dipped in recent weeks, even by his own admission, so on Tuesday the Blues decided to sit him out against the Nashville Predators. It marked the first scratch of the season for the NHL's No. 1 overall pick in 2006. "We need E.J. to play better, and we think he will," coach Andy Murray said. "His play away from the puck is an area where he needs to consistently work."
Analysis: Johnson had 21 points (four goals, 17 assists) in his first 30 games this season. But he doesn't have a point and he's a minus-3 in his last eight games. "Yeah, you always want to play," Johnson said. "But, personally, I know that I haven't played as well as I can, and there's a lot more to be expected from me. I know when I'm not playing well, and the last couple of games I haven't been at my best. It (the healthy scratch) is definitely deserving. ... Everyone needs to be held accountable. There can't be a double-standard where if a guy doesn't play well, he doesn't sit out." Johnson is too good of a player to be out of the lineup for long, so hopefully he takes the benching as a wake-up call. You can bench Johnson if you want in Fantasy, but don't drop him. He should rebound and Johnson is a player with high-end Fantasy potential.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Blues D Erik Johnson had his five-game point streak snapped against the Red Wings on Saturday. Johnson had registered two goals and three assists in five games before Saturday. He leads the Blues with 17 points, which ranks ninth among all NHL defensemen.
Analysis: We have really been pleased with the way Johnson has bounced back from a serious knee injury and hasn't missed a beat. He wasn't a former No. 1 pick for nothing. He has skills at both ends of the ice and remains a must-start Fantasy option.
News: St. Louis D Erik Johnson scored his first goal of the season in the 1st period of the Blues' 6-1 win over the Canucks on Tuesday. Johnson would later assist on David Perron's 3rd-period goal.
Analysis: The two points scored on Tuesday now gives Johnson 11 on the season. He has four points in his last four games. He's getting better and better for the Blues of late and deserves to be active in almost all Fantasy leagues at this point.
News:The Sports Xchange reports D Erik Johnson might no longer be on the Blues' top power-play unit, but he's showing that his booming shot can still be effective. A blast by Johnson was deflected in by Paul Kariya for the team's only goal in Tuesday's 5-1 loss to Pittsburgh.
Analysis: Johnson assist Tuesday gave the team's defensemen a combined 13 points through seven games this season. Last season, Blues' defensemen didn't post their 13th point until the team's 17th game of the season. Johnson, meanwhile, has seven assists through seven games this season. A year ago, a Blues defenseman didn't record his seventh point until Barret Jackman did it in the club's 30th game. Johnson missed all of the 2008-09 season due to a torn ACL and you can see what a profound effect it had on the club. Johnson is back to 100 percent and producing, so keep him active in all Fantasy formats.
News: St. Louis D Erik Johnson picked up three assists on Saturday in a 5-0 win over the Ducks. His points total tripled from three to six with the performance, with all of his points coming via the assists so far.
Analysis: Johnson's knee does not seem to be bothering him early on this season, which is a good sign for Fantasy owners. Johnson is a good offensive blueliner and it appears he is quickly rising up the Fantasy rankings again. Get him active for Fantasy Week 3 (Oct. 19-25).
News:The Sports Xchange reports D Erik Johnson assisted on the Blues' last two goals Saturday against the Red Wings, looking as impressive as he's been through training camp and the first two games of the season.
Analysis: Johnson is at plus-4 through two games and doesn't look one bit slowed by his knee. Johnson is coming off a torn ACL, which usually hinders hockey players upon their return. He seems to be defying the odds. Johnson is a good offensive blueliner and it appears he is quickly rising up the Fantasy rankings again.
News: Blues D Erik Johnson, who missed all of last season with a torn knee ligament, played in Tuesday's preseason-opening win over the Wild.
Analysis: Fantasy owners have been anxiously awaiting Johnson's return after the 2006 No. 1 pick posted 33 points in 69 games as a rookie in 2007-08. NHLers usually struggle returning from a torn ACL, but the news has been encouraging on Johnson and he remains an injury-risk Fantasy sleeper Draft Day 2009.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Blues D Erik Johnson, who missed last season with a torn knee ligament, received clearance to return to full contact on August 9th. Johnson said that he's been training as hard as anyone for the upcoming season.
Analysis: The Blues aren't the only ones excited to see Johnson back on the ice. Fantasy owners have also been anxiously awaiting his return after the 2006 No. 1 pick posted 33 points in 69 games as a rookie in 2007-08. NHLers usually struggle returning from a torn ACL, but the news has been encouraging on Johnson and he remains an injury-risk Fantasy sleeper Draft Day 2009.
News:The Sports Xchange reports D Erik Johnson participated in the Blues' Pro Orientation Camp and appears to be fully recovered from a knee injury that kept him on the sidelines in 2008-09. Johnson was No. 1 in off-ice testing among the Blues' summer workout participants and he was dazzling in on-ice training drills. He did not play in the scrimmage game for precautionary reasons.
Analysis: Fantasy owners were stunned when Johnson was forced to miss the 2008-09 season due to a freak golf cart accident that tore up his knee. It was really disappointing since the 2006 No. 1 pick was coming off a solid rookie season (33 points in 69 games). NHLers usually struggle returning from a torn ACL, but the news is encouraging on Johnson and he remains an injury-risk Fantasy sleeper Draft Day 2009.
News: Blues D Erik Johnson, out since tearing both ligaments in his knee in a preseason golf-cart accident, has resumed skating on his own but is not expected to play in the opening-round series against the Canucks.
Analysis: It's encouraging to see Johnson back up on skates several months after messing up his knee and it would be a real boost to his Fantasy value heading into 2009-10 if he made a postseason appearance. However, Johnson still has a bright future ahead and St. Louis will try to minimize his exposure to long-term damage. Johnson remains a decent long-term Fantasy keeper and will be an injury-risk selection next season since he is coming off a major injury.
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that Blues D Erik Johnson is progressing nicely with rehab on his torn ACL. "Five days after surgery, I was able to start some range of motion and walk around on it almost immediately with crutches," Johnson said. "It was tough, but the worst is behind me and now I can just gear forward toward next year."
Analysis: Johnson is getting a bit of a label as a fragile player, but there is still no denying he has a world of talent. Johnson finished his rookie season in 2007-08 with only five goals, 28 assists and a minus-9 rating in 69 games. However, he finished the season on a high note with five points (four assists) in his last six games. He remains a solid guy for keeper formats.
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that Blues D Erik Johnson will undergo knee surgery Wednesday. He tore two ligaments in his right knee in a golf-cart accident in September, an injury sidelining him for the entire season.
Analysis: Johnson had offseason shoulder surgery, and now he will get plenty of time to rest that injury up while he deals with this knee problem. Johnson is getting a bit of a label as a fragile player, but there is still no denying he has a world of talent. Johnson finished his rookie season in 2007-08 with only five goals, 28 assists and a minus-9 rating in 69 games. However, he finished the season on a high note with five points (four assists) in his last six games. He remains a solid guy for keeper formats.
News: The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that Blues D Erik Johnson will have surgery on his torn ACL sometime in the near future. The team and Johnson are trying to decide where and when the surgery will be performed.
Analysis: Johnson had offseason shoulder surgery, and now he will get plenty of time to rest that injury up while he deals with this knee problem. Johnson is getting a bit of a label as a fragile player, but there is still no denying he has a world of talent. Johnson finished his rookie season in 2007-08 with only five goals, 28 assists and a minus-9 rating in 69 games. However, he finished the season on a high note with five points (four assists) in his last six games. He remains a solid guy for keeper formats.
News: Blues D Erik Johnson, the No. 1 pick in the 2006 draft, tore two ligaments in his right knee during a recent golf outing and is expected to miss the entire season but recover fully. "In our business you get a few curveballs," team president John Davidson said Tuesday night before St. Louis played Dallas in a preseason game. "This is a pretty good curveball." Johnson, 20, was injured during a team golf outing on Sept. 16 when his right foot got caught between the accelerator and the brake of his golf cart. The Blues had to wait for swelling in the knee to go down before a diagnosis could be made. Two surgeons determined that Johnson tore the anterior cruciate and medial collateral ligaments in the knee that will require an operation to fix.
Analysis: Johnson had offseason shoulder surgery, and now he will get plenty of time to rest that injury up while he deals with this knee problem. Johnson is getting a bit of a label as a fragile player, but there is still no denying he has a world of talent. Johnson finished his rookie season in 2007-08 with only five goals, 28 assists and a minus-9 rating in 69 games. However, he finished the season on a high note with five points (four assists) in his last six games. You obviously won't want to draft Johnson in seasonal leagues for 2008-09 and he's probably already owned in most keeper formats.
News: St. Louis Blues defenseman Erik Johnson will miss the first three days of training camp because of a knee injury. Team president John Davidson said Thursday that Johnson hurt his right knee in a non-hockey related incident. Johnson will be re-evaluated over the weekend and his status will be updated before Tuesday's preseason game with the Dallas Stars. Johnson was the Blues' first overall pick in 2006.
Analysis: Johnson was already trying to recover from offseason shoulder surgery, and now he is dealing with another ailment. This comes on the heels of Johnson suffering a hairline fracture in his foot early last season. Johnson is getting a bit of a label as a fragile player, but there is still no denying he has a world of talent. Johnson finished his rookie season in 2007-08 with five goals, 28 assists and a minus-9 rating in 69 games. However, he finished the season on a high note with five points (four assists) in his last six games. Consider drafting Johnson as a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy defenseman, but there is definite room for improvement.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Blues D Erik Johnson said he feels "90-95 percent" healthy after offseason shoulder surgery. Johnson had a piece of cartilage removed from his right shoulder and he had a slight tear in his labrum repaired. He could be limited in training camp, but is expected to be ready for the Blues' season opener Oct. 10 against Nashville. "I'll really know how my shoulder feels when I start throwing it around and getting contact," Johnson said. "But as far as passing and shooting and stick-handling, getting bumped, it's fine. It feels like it did at the beginning of last season."
Analysis: Johnson, the No. 1 pick in 2006, made his NHL debut in 2007-08. Johnson didn't disappoint as he had a goal and assist in his first two games. Then, he suffered a hairline fracture in his foot that kept him sidelined a month, and the rookie just wasn't the same after the injury. He posted just 15 points (two goals) in his next 34 games. He finished with five goals, 28 assists and a minus-9 rating in 69 games. However, he finished the season on a high note with five points (four assists) in his last six games. He appears to be a bit fragile early in his career and that's one notion he would like to erase. There is no denying that Johnson is a developing offensive talent, but playing for the Blues could hurt his plus/minus rating. Don't let the shoulder injury deter you from drafting Johnson as a No. 3 or No. 4 Fantasy defenseman.
News: Blues D Erik Johnson tallied two assists and a plus-1 rating during Sunday's game against the Blue Jackets. He now has three assists in his last three games and 17 on the season.
Analysis: Johnson doesn't have a goal since December and has seven assists in his last 20 games. The rookie is still learning the NHL game, but the Blues continue to trot him on the ice. He is a great long-term keeper, but is more of a No. 4 or No. 5 Fantasy defenseman.
News: Blues rookie D Erik Johnson matched a career high with three assists Tuesday in a 6-1 rout of the Columbus Blue Jackets. Johnson also had three helpers back on Dec. 11 against Edmonton.
Analysis: Johnson plays anywhere from 13 to 22 minutes on a nightly basis, which is pretty good for a guy in his first NHL season. He now has 13 assists and 16 points on the year. The first overall pick in the 2006 draft has some great potential and should be considered a No. 3 defenseman in all formats and is especially valuable in keeper leagues.
News:Keith Tkachuk scored his ninth goal on a power play at 5:48 of the third against Atlanta Sunday, deflecting a pass from the point by Erik Johnson to put the Blues ahead 2-1.
Analysis: Johnson missed a few weeks with a foot injury, but came back in early November and has looked sharp at times. He will have some struggles as a rookie, but is still a decent No. 3 Fantasy defenseman at this time and a solid keeper.
News: Rookie defenseman Erik Johnson assisted on three second-period goals against Edmonton Tuesday.
Analysis: Johnson missed a few weeks with a foot injury, but came back in early November and has looked sharp at times. He will have some struggles as a rookie, but is still a decent No. 3 Fantasy defenseman at this time and a solid keeper.
News: Blues D Erik Johnson tallied an assist and finished at plus-1 during Friday's game against the Oilers. He also spent two minutes in the penalty box for roughing. Johnson now has an assist in consecutive games.
Analysis: Everyone is excited about Johnson's potential. He missed a few weeks with a foot injury, but came back in early November and has looked sharp at times. He will have some struggles as a rookie, but is still a decent No. 3 Fantasy defenseman at this time.
News: Rookie Erik Johnson gave the Blues a 2-0 lead 1:58 into the second period Friday against the Canucks with a power-play goal when he skated in from the left point and one-timed a cross-ice pass from Doug Weight over the shoulder of Roberto Luongo. It was Johnson's second goal of the season. "I found the seam and (Weight) made a great pass," Johnson said. "I'm pretty much out there just to pass and shoot. I had a great stance and I just pounded it when I got the puck in my wheelhouse."
Analysis: Everyone is excited about Johnson's potential. He missed a few weeks with a foot injury, but came back in early November and has looked sharp at times. He will have some struggles as a rookie, but is still a decent No. 3 Fantasy defenseman at this time.
News: Rookie defenseman Erik Johnson displayed one of his many valuable assets Monday night against Nashville, a strength that no doubt will come in handy for the Blues this season. His rocket shot from the point on the power play will create many goals, as it did on the Blues' first goal in their 2-1 win over the Predators. Paul Kariya deflected the shot in for his fifth goal this season. "I think the Blues have lacked a good right-handed shooting power-play guy since they hung that other guy's jersey up," Blues coach Andy Murray said, referring to new Hall of Famer Al MacInnis. "Erik shoots the one-timer well, and he creates more space for other players because of that. He's just got to be prepared to blast some pucks and break some legs sometimes, because at times he'll hesitate. But he drilled that one (Monday)."
Analysis: Johnson missed 10 games earlier this season with a hairline fracture in his right foot. The Blues tried a variety of players at the position, but none with the firepower of Johnson. "That's kind of what they've focused on with me, getting your shot through," Johnson said. "They give me the go to let it rip all the time. Paul got a good stick on it, and got the tip... that's good to get traffic in front." Kariya was impressed Monday night. "He's got such a bomb, he can put those in himself," Kariya said. Johnson, the No. 1 overall pick from 2006, is still a great long-term keeper and worth holding onto in most seasonal league formats.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Blues fans are wondering when will defenseman Erik Johnson be back in the Blues' lineup? Johnson suffered a hairline fracture in his right foot in early October, but has been deemed healthy enough to play. The 19-year-old rookie, though, watched another game Saturday against the Blackhawks from the press box. Blues coach Andy Murray says that Johnson will suit up when another defenseman has played his way out of the lineup. "How do you go up to a player that's played well for you and say, 'You're not playing tonight?'" Murray said. "It's no tougher for me to not play Erik Johnson than it is for me not to play Matt Walker or Mike Johnson or Dan Hinote. They're all guys with a lot of pride who want to be in the lineup. It isn't any easier going up and telling those guys they're not in the lineup than it is Erik Johnson."
Analysis: Murray said that while Johnson has the notoriety of being the No. 1 overall pick from 2006, he still has to build his credibility with the veterans. "Once there's an opportunity, I fully expect that Erik will get in there," Murray said. "Then it will be tough for somebody to get that spot away from him. That's what we're hoping." The Blues are making the former No. 1 pick earn his playing time. Perhaps that will serve as motivation for the youngster. Johnson returned to the lineup Sunday against the Blue Jackets and will do his best to keep a spot on the active roster. He is still a great long-term keeper and worth holding onto in most seasonal league formats.
News: Blues D Erik Johnson (foot) did not return to action Saturday against the Blackhawks. He has been out since early October with a hairline fracture in his right foot.
Analysis: Johnson is frustrated, but it's a lot better to be safe than sorry if you are the Blues, especially with a player who is such a big part of their future. He won't be asked to return until he is 100 percent. When healthy, he is a viable Fantasy option.
News: Blues D Erik Johnson (foot) did not return to action Thursday against the Wild. He has been out since early October with a hairline fracture in his right foot.
Analysis: Johnson is frustrated, but it's a lot better to be safe than sorry if you are the Blues, especially with a player who is such a big part of their future. He won't be asked to return until he is 100 percent. When healthy, he is a viable Fantasy option.
News: D Erik Johnson could return to the lineup Thursday in Minnesota after missing eight games with a hairline fracture in his right foot.
Analysis: Johnson is frustrated, but it's a lot better to be safe than sorry if you are the Blues, especially with a player who is such a big part of their future. He won't be asked to return until he is 100 percent.
News: The St. Louis Blues have ordered D Erik Johnson (fractured right foot) to stop practicing. The No. 1 pick overall in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft is battling back from a hairline fracture in the foot which he suffered on opening night. "It was still sore when I was skating," Johnson told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. "By not skating and just resting, that will be the best for it long-term. That's what they decided. I'm just a little frustrated that I can't play yet because I feel like this whole time I could have been playing. I could have dealt with it. I think staying off it and then (practicing) again has allowed it to get sore."
Analysis: Johnson is frustrated, but it's a lot better to be safe than sorry if you are the Blues, especially with a player who is such a big part of their future. Keep him reserved at least through early November, as he might resume skating in another seven to 10 days. It's obvious he won't be asked to return until he is 100 percent.
News: D Erik Johnson, who suffered a broken foot on Oct. 4, will be kept off the ice this week. He missed his fifth game Tuesday against Anaheim, and the injury doesn't appear to be healing as well as the Blues' physicians would like. "It was still sore when I was skating," Johnson said. "I think by not skating and just resting, that will be the best for it, long-term. That's what they decided. "I'm just a little frustrated that I can't play yet because I feel like this whole time, I could have been playing. I think I could have dealt with it. I think staying off it... and then (practicing) again has allowed it to get sore."
Analysis: Johnson should remain reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: Erik Johnson (fractured right foot) was sidelined for the fifth consecutive game on Tuesday night against Anaheim.
Analysis: Johnson remains day to day with the hairline fracture. He might be able to return on Thursday at Columbus, but he should remain reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: Blues D Erik Johnson (foot) was forced to miss his fourth consecutive game on Saturday against the Wild.
Analysis: Johnson, the No. 1 pick in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft, is a must-start in all deeper Fantasy leagues when healthy and is a must-have in long-term keeper formats. The Blues don't take the ice again until Tuesday, but it is probably best to keep Johnson reserved for Fantasy Week 4 (Oct. 22-28). The Blues will be very careful with their top prospect.
News: Erik Johnson (fractured right foot) was forced to miss his third consecutive game on Wednesday night at Chicago.
Analysis: Johnson remains day to day. He'll have two full days to rest before the Blues take the ice again on Saturday night against Minnesota.
News: Blues rookie D Erik Johnson (foot) remained sidelined for the second consecutive game on Friday against the Avalanche. Johnson is day to day with a hairline fracture of his right foot, the team said Wednesday.
Analysis: Johnson is one of three top defenseman out for the Blues. Eric Brewer is out two to three weeks with a shoulder injury and Jay McKee is out four to six weeks with a broken foot. The No. 1 pick in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft is a must-start in all deeper Fantasy leagues when healthy and is a must-have in long-term keeper formats. The Blues don't take the ice again until Wednesday, but it is probably best to keep Johnson reserved for Fantasy Week 3 (Oct. 15-21).
News: St. Louis Blues rookie defenseman Erik Johnson is day to day with a hairline fracture of his right foot, the team said Wednesday. Johnson, the first overall pick of the 2006 draft, was evaluated by team physician Dr. Rick Wright on Tuesday. The Blues recalled defenseman Micki DuPont from Peoria, Ill., of the American Hockey League.
Analysis: Johnson is one of three top defenseman out for the Blues. Eric Brewer is out two to three weeks with a shoulder injury and Jay McKee is out four to six weeks with a broken foot. The No. 1 pick in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft is a must-start in all deeper Fantasy leagues when healthy and is a must-have in long-term keeper formats.
News: The Blues hope the power-play goal scored by D Erik Johnson in Saturday night's victory is the first of many in his bright NHL career. Johnson, the No. 1 overall pick in 2006, netted the goal with 7 minutes, 17 seconds remaining in the third period, helping the Blues overcome a 3-1 third-period deficit. Left winger Keith Tkachuk collected the puck that Johnson scored with and congratulated the 19-year-old rookie.
Analysis: Johnson looks like everything as advertised. The No. 1 pick in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft is a must-start in all deeper Fantasy leagues and is a must-have in long-term keeper formats.
News: Johnson picked up his first-career NHL point on an assist in Thursday's regular season opener at Phoenix. He also had a shot on goal, which was a laser, turned aside by Mikael Tellqvist in the loss. Coach Andy Murray said, "Overall, he has to improve on some things. He also did some good things."
Analysis: Johnson looks like everything as advertised. The No. 1 pick in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft is a must-start in all deeper Fantasy leagues and is a must-have in long-term keeper formats.
News: The No. 1 pick in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft, Johnson made his preseason debut with the Blues in Sunday's preseason game against the Thrashers. He was scoreless in 20:54 of ice time with one shot on net.
Analysis: Johnson, who is wearing No. 6, is expected to be a tremendous defenseman before too long in the NHL. For now, he is worth a look in the later rounds in all Fantasy leagues and he is a must-have in keeper formats.
