It doesn’t seem like an Avalanche season without the grinning, toothless friendly face of Avalanche alternate captain Erik Johnson.
Up until Sunday, though, the team had been without Johnson, as he underwent quarantine following a positive covid-19 test. Now, he’s finally back — and ready to go.
Johnson joined Avs prospect Bowen Byram in making their first appearances of the season on Sunday, with Johnson earning his clearance for COVID protocol following his positive test and Byram finally being released from quarantine following his late arrival due to the 2021 IIHF World Junior Championships:
Johnson seemed to be in high spirits upon his return, expressing his frustration that a positive test derailed his arrival on the ice while also acknowledging how important community safety and health is.