Philly Leader

Erik Johnson, a seasoned NHL player and horse racing enthusiast, is set to be honored by the Philadelphia Flyers for reaching 1,000 career games. The celebration will feature several Colorado Avalanche players who have had racehorses named after them by Johnson. Among those attending are Gabriel Landeskog, Cale Makar, Nathan MacKinnon, and Mikko Rantanen. These players were part of the Avalanche's Stanley Cup-winning team in 2022.

Johnson's journey with the Avalanche began in 2011 when he was traded from St. Louis. Despite initial reluctance to leave St. Louis, his time in Colorado marked some of the best years of his career. He faced challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic but persevered and contributed to winning the Stanley Cup.

Coincidentally, Johnson's 1,001st game coincides with the Avalanche's visit to Philadelphia, allowing him to celebrate this milestone with both teams significant in his career. "It’s super special how it all lined up," said Johnson about the event timing.

Landeskog shares a close relationship with Johnson that has been described as more than just teammates over the years. They arrived in Colorado around the same time and quickly became friends and roommates. Landeskog has supported Johnson throughout their careers together.

After leaving Colorado in 2023 due to contract expiration and a brief stint in Buffalo, Johnson joined the Flyers at last year's trade deadline. His impact on Philadelphia has been notable despite having played only 30 games for them so far.

The upcoming celebration will highlight not only Johnson's accomplishments but also his enduring relationships within the hockey community.