Step Forward: Erik Johnson Skates with Reserves

CENTENNIAL, Colo– One step forward for the Colorado Avalanche and defenseman Erik Johnson. Johnson has been out since Jan. 30 after Minnesota Wild forward Jordan Greenaway delivered a heavy hit, and Johnson fell awkwardly into the boards. Johnson continued his recovery progression on Tuesday from what most assume to be a concussion or concussion symptoms.

Tuesday morning at the Avalanche practice facility in Centennial, CHN reporter Adrian Dater was able to get video of Johnson skating with the reserves, including players from the Avalanche taxi squad, including Logan O’Connor.

Johnson wasn’t too involved and certainly did not take contact and did not participate in any drills.

Colorado Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar recently said Johnson was “doubtful” to be ready for the playoffs. Here is Dater’s video from the Avalanche practice

Erik Johnson practicing here pic.twitter.com/pdhNgKQ5NC

— Adrian Dater (@adater) June 1, 2021

Colorado Avalanche, Ryan Graves

The Avalanche appeared to need a defenseman after Game 1 of their Round Two series against the Vegas Golden Knights when VGK grinder Ryan Reaves dumped defenseman Ryan Graves to the ice.

Reaves admitted he got a chunk of Graves’ hair as he threw Graves to the ice. Reaves also appeared to knee Graves in the head before he was tossed for an attempt to injure and given a double-minor for roughing.

On Monday afternoon, the NHL suspended Reaves for two games after a hearing. Reaves could have received a larger suspension, but after lying motionless on the ice while the other nine players scrummed and scrapped, Graves apparently avoided injury. He was able to practice Tuesday and will play in Game 2.

Ryan Graves at practice pic.twitter.com/vNI33zuA2U

— Adrian Dater (@adater) June 1, 2021

In five playoff games, Graves has five points (1-4-5). This season, Graves popped for 15 points (2-13-15). Last season, the Avs defenseman led the NHL in plus-minus (+40).

Game 2 between the Avalanche and Vegas Golden Knights is Wednesday night at the Ball Arena. It will be a late puck drop for television. The game will not begin until 8 p.m. local time.