Following a freak injury during a team golfing event last week, Erik Johnson received the devastating news Tuesday that he'll be out 6-9 months with a torn ACL.
This will prematurely end the sophomore campaign for the No. 1 overall pick of the 2006 NHL Draft. He had five goals and 33 points in 69 games last season, which led all Blues' defensemen.
He was projected to be paired with Jay McKee on the second defensive unit for the Blues, but more importantly he was expected to quarterback the power play that finished dead last in the NHL last season.
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The news is extremely unfortunate for the future cornerstone of the Blues franchise, but the Blues aren't expected to contend for a playoff spot, and more importantly, are very deep on the back end.
The move will likely mean a promotion for Jeff Woywitka, who played 27 games with the Blues last season. He could be replaced on the power play by Steve Wagner, who surprised many people last year with his offensive skill. In 24 games, he had two goals and eight points, all on special teams.
This could also lead to the Blues making a move for Mathieu Schneider. St. Louis was expected to claim him off of waivers before the Johnson injury and now they may be more tempted to acquire him.
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