Colorado Avalanche Goaltender Heads Home Overseas

Following parts of four seasons in the NHL, and six years in total in North America, Colorado Avalanche pending free agent goaltender Jonas Johansson has decided to take his talents back home to Sweden for 2023-24.

🏔️Colorado Eagles goalie and Avalanche third stringer, Jonas Johansson has signed a contract with Färjestad BK a team apart of the SHL (Swedish Hockey League) in Karlstad. pic.twitter.com/BDLXMBqWAp
— Everyday Avs (@EverydayAvs) May 9, 2023

Johansson will be joining Färjestad BK of the SHL. The team issued a news release, in which the 27-year-old goalie is quoted as saying "I have really enjoyed myself (in North America). Both in the Avalanche and in the (Colorado) Eagles, which is the farm team. So even though I've had to move around quite a bit, I've had a good time."

He was thrilled, though, to be offered a deal to return home. "Immediately when I heard that there was interest, you immediately felt that it was a hot option, so that is only positive. I'm already committed to next season.

"The dream of the NHL will always live on as long as you play, I think," continued the Swedish-born netminder. "But at this stage in life, it feels good to be able to come home and play. A little closer to friends and family and get to experience Swedish hockey again. It will be a lot of fun."

Johansson played in a total of 35 games in his short NHL career, while posting an 11-13-4 record with an .886 save percentage. This season, he started two games for the Avs, going 2-0 with a .932 SV%. He had an impressive season with the Eagles in the AHL, starting 26 games while posting a 2.33 GAA and a .920 SV%.

Photo: Marc DesRosiers-USA TODAY Sports