The Avalanche are close to completing a four- or five-year extension with restricted free agent Erik Johnson. Josh Rimer of NHL Home Ice reports that the long-term deal will be announced Tuesday, though the specifics of the contract are unclear at this point. Johnson was the top pick in the 2006 draft by the Blues, but he's yet to really take the next step since his first two seasons when he accumulated 72 points in 148 games. In his two seasons (150 games) since, the 23-year-old has recorded 55 points, seeing his production dip to 26 this past season. He earned $3 million in the 2011-12 campaign.

The Avalanche are close to completing a four- or five-year extension with restricted free agent Erik Johnson. Josh Rimer of NHL Home Ice reports that the long-term deal will be announced Tuesday, though the specifics of the contract are unclear at this point. Johnson was the top pick in the 2006 draft by the Blues, but he's yet to really live of to the hype beyond his first two seasons when he accumulated 72 points in 148 games. The 23-year-old has just 55 points in the 150 games since, seeing his production dip to 26 points this past season. He earned $3 million in the 2011-12 campaign.

The Colorado Avalanche have plenty of money available for free agents if they need it. The Avs still have to sign RFA's Erik Johnson, Ryan O'Reilly and Jamie McGinn but that will not matter as far as the salary cap is concerned. Do not expect them to be players for the big guns like Ryan Suter and Zach Parise but they could be in play for other unrestricted free agents like P.A. Parenteau according to the Denver Post. Stay tuned.

Erik Johnson, who is scheduled to be a restricted free agent this summer, sounds open to signing a long-term deal with Colorado. "Last time I was restricted (in 2010 with the Blues), I let the negotiations get to me a little bit," said Johnson. "This time around, I'm experienced and I'll just let my agent handle it. But there's one thing I want to make clear to my agent: I want to be here for the long haul and I love what this group has to offer and everything this organization is all about. For me, it's a no-brainer to want to come back." Johnson had four goals and 26 points in 73 games this season. He should be regarded as a sleeper candidate going into 2012-13 fantasy drafts.

Erik Johnson registered two assists in Friday's game. That ended Johnson's 14-game pointless streak. That drought will likely prevent Johnson from reaching the 30-point mark this season. He still has the potential to turn into a top-tier offensive defenseman. However, we can't recommend selecting him until near the end of drafts in standard leagues.

Erik Johnson will return from his back injury on Monday. Rookie Tyson Barrie will be removed from the lineup to make room for him. Johnson has been absent from the Avalanche's past three games.

Erik Johnson (back) skated on his own Sunday and could return to the Colorado lineup as early as Monday. Johnson has missed the last three games with his back injury. He has four goals and 24 points in 68 games this season. He will be a game-time decision at best as the Avalanche are in San Jose tonight.

Erik Johnson (back) took part in Friday's optional practice. It remains to be seen if Johnson will be available for Saturday's game. He has four goals and 24 points in 68 games this season.

Erik Johnson won't dress in Thursday's important contest versus Phoenix because of a back injury. It will mark the second straight he has missed with the ailment and rookie Tyson Barrie will take his place on the blueline again. Consider Johnson day-to-day for the time being.

Erik Johnson (back) didn't take part in Wednesday's practice. There's still a chance that Johnson will return on Thursday. He has four goals and 20 assists in 68 contests this season.