The St. Louis Blues are in the midst of preparing for the upcoming 2025-26 season, where they hope to make a deeper run in the playoffs as compared to last year, when they were eliminated in the first round by the Winnipeg Jets.
On Wednesday, Blue fans found out that former 2006 first-overall pick Erik Johnson is retiring from te the NHL. Johnson announced the news through the Colorado Avalanche, the team in which he spent the bulk of his 18-year career.
"After 18 incredible years in the NHL, I am retiring with a heart full of gratitude," said Johnson. "To the St. Louis Blues, Buffalo Sabres, Philadelphia Flyers and most of all the Colorado Avalanche: thank you for the opportunities and memories, especially the 2022 Stanley Cup. To my teammates, coaches, and staff: your support, camaraderie, and dedication shaped my career.
"To the fans: your passion made every moment unforgettable. To my family and friends: your unconditional love and support carried me through. Hockey has been my life, and I'm grateful for every second. I'm excited for what's next and will always cherish this journey."
Forever our Condor 🦅 pic.twitter.com/2vbDq14wis
— Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) October 1, 2025
Former Blues No. 1 pick Erik Johnson announces retirement
The Blues reacted to Johnson's announcement, wishing the former defenseman well in his retirement.
"Erik Johnson will forever be a part of Blues history as our first No. 1 overall draft pick. Thank you for your time in the Note and congratulations on your retirement," said the Blues on their official Twitter account.
Johnson began his career with the Blues, who won the draft lottery to secure the No. 1 overall pick in the 2006 NHL Draft. In a draft class containing Jonathan Toews, Niklas Backstrom, and Phil Kessel, the Blues ultimately picked Johnson, who was the top defenseman that year.
Johnson made his debut during the 2007-08 season, playing a total of 69 games, where he recorded five goals, 28 assists, 87 hits, and 64 blocked shots. Johnson missed the entirety of the 2008-09 season after suffering a torn ACL and MCL. He returned for the following campaign, putting up 10 goals, 29 assists, 77 blocked shots, and 70 hits.
Midway through the 2010-11 season, the Blues opted to trade Johnson to the Avalanche in a package in exchange for Kevin Shattenkirk and Chris Stewart.
Johnson spent 14 seasons with the Avalanche, where he won his first Stanley Cup in 2022. Towards the tail-end of his career, he also spent time with the Philadelphia Flyers and Buffalo Sabres. Johnson retires with 95 goals, 253 assists, and 348 points to his credit.
Johnson may not have spent a ton of time with the Blues, but he is their only first overall pick. Johnson acknowledged his time with the Blues while announcing his retirement, and the organization sent out a statement wishing him the best of luck in his retirement.