Ex-Sabres Defenseman Makes Debut for Flyers

This former Sabres defenseman has made his debut for Philly.

Before the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline passed, the Buffalo Sabres traded veteran defenseman Erik Johnson to the Philadelphia Flyers for a 2024 fourth-round pick. Overall, the Sabres made this move to allow Johnson the opportunity to play for a potential playoff club. 

Johnson, 35, made his Flyers debut last night against the Tampa Bay Lightning, sporting a far different No. 77 on his jersey. In 19:57 of ice, the 2006 first-overall pick had six hits, two blocks, and a minus-1 rating. 

The Flyers had a truly atrocious game, as they got demolished by the Lightning, losing by a 7-0 final score. This certainly is not how Johnson wanted his first game in orange and black to go. 

However, this is just the beginning of Johnson's stint in Philly. He is expected to provide them with more physicality and leadership as they try to shock the NHL and secure a playoff spot for this spring. 

In 50 games with the Sabres this season, Johnson had three goals, 93 hits, and a minus-5 rating. 

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