Longtime Avalanche defenseman Erik Johnson ecstatic for homecoming

Philadelphia Flyers’ Erik Johnson in action during an NHL hockey game against the Colorado Avalanche, Monday, Nov. 18, 2024, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Derik Hamilton)The Colorado Avalanche has traded for 10 players since late November, but only one had his own bed waiting for him.

Erik Johnson’s return became the last deal general manager Chris MacFarland made ahead of the 2025 NHL trade deadline, but there’s little question it will have the highest approval rating with the fan base among his eight trades in a 99-day span.

“Just a big whirlwind,” Johnson said. “You never know if you’re going to be back to your favorite city, your favorite team where you have so much love and respect for…