Erik Johnson back on the ice for Avalanche – is a playoff return possible?

Well, shocker today at Ball Arena: Erik Johnson was on the ice, on skates, in Avs practice gear. Here, see for yourself:

The Condor is flying!

We’re glad to see EJ start to get back on the ice. #GoAvsGo pic.twitter.com/XGYFW4lWdk

— p – Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) May 30, 2021

EJ has been out since Jan. 30, after taking a hit into the boards in Minnesota from Jordan Greenway. It’s been assumed that he has had concussion symptoms.

The question: could EJ actually come back in the playoffs? Jared Bednar today said it’s “doubtful”, but that means there could be a chance. Obviously, the Avs will need to advance beyond this round before that’s even a possibility.

Either way, it’s great to see Erik Johnson on skates again.

Speaking of being back on skates with the rest of the team today: Logan O’Connor. As we reported a couple days ago, Bednar said LOC could return soon, that he’s ahead of his rehab schedule.

Bednar would not tip his hand as to whether it’ll be Sampo Ranta or Alex Newhook in the lineup tonight. My money is on Ranta, but we’ll see.