Erik Johnson could be a great fit for this Atlantic Division club.
Buffalo Sabres defenseman Erik Johnson is a player to watch extremely closely over the next week. There's a real shot that the veteran defenseman will be dealt, as he is a pending UFA, and his experience should grab the attention of contenders because of it.
The Hockey News Sabres' Michael Augello recently named the Toronto Maple Leafs, Vegas Golden Knights, and Colorado Avalanche as possible suitors for Johnson at the deadline. I also recently argued why the Dallas Stars could jump into the sweepstakes. Yet, there's another club that would benefit from taking a shot on Johnson – the Boston Bruins.
Things are not going too hot for the Bruins right now. While they are tied with the Florida Panthers with 80 points at the top of the Atlantic Division standings, they have been trending immensely in the wrong direction. They are continuing to blow late-game leads and have won only three out of their last 10 games. Five of their last 10 games have also been overtime losses.
With the Bruins struggling to close out games, they should be looking at a steady defensive defenseman like Johnson. The 2006 first-overall pick would be an excellent addition to the right side of their bottom pairing and would also be a candidate for penalty-kill time if acquired.
Johnson's well-known reputation as being a marvelous leader would also make him a potential strong fit for the Bruins. With that, he would give them another player with plenty of playoff experience and, of course, a Stanley Cup on his resume. We will need to wait and see if all of this leads to Boston calling the Sabres about Johnson from here.
In 50 games this season with the Sabres, Johnson has three goals, 93 hits, and 68 blocks.
[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RvnD4XIf32E[/embed]
Recent Sabres News
Sabres & Coyotes Becoming Possible Trade Partners
Former Sabres Star Goalie Becoming Trade Candidate
Sabres Winger Could Be A Target Of Western Conference Contender
Sabres Should Be Eyeing Blue Jackets Star Defender
Around the NHL
Lightning Being Linked to Blue Jackets Star Defenseman
'He Can Have It': Leon Draisaitl Passes Along His Nickname to Connor McDavid