The Erik Johnson experiment has come to an end. According to Elliotte Friedman, the Buffalo Sabres moved the veteran defenseman to the Philadelphia Flyers in exchange for a 2024 fourth-round pick. That return is higher than what I expected, especially with no salary retention in the deal.

Johnson was brought in this offseason to play on the bottom pair and be a veteran leader on a team hoping to contend for the playoffs. To say it didn’t work out may be a bit of an understatement. The 35-year-old defenseman had a hard time being an effective player consistently as the team floundered. Kevyn Adams was probably hoping for a break-even sixth defenseman, but Johnson finished a team-low -3.1 goals above replacement in Evolving Hockey’s model.

He has been worked out of the top six as he battled with some injuries and illness. After being benched for two periods against the Florida Panthers, Johnson has been scratched the last five games while searching for a trade solution.

His career with the Sabres ends with three goals and no assists in 50 games.

Data via: Evolving Hockey

Photo Credit: Nick Wosika-USA TODAY Sports