Erik Johnson Criticizes NHL Players Seeking Trades
The former first overall pick questioned players who request trades midway through contracts they signed in good faith.
Updated on Nov. 13, 2026 in Hockey
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Former NHL defenseman Erik Johnson criticized players who request trades while under contract during an ESPN appearance on Thursday, November 12, 2026. His comments come as several high-profile trade situations, including Dylan Larkin's request to leave the Detroit Red Wings, remain unresolved.
Why it matters
Johnson's remarks add to a debate over player loyalty and contract obligations as multiple NHL stars have sought exits this season. The comments reflect a view within the league that players should honor agreements they signed in good faith.
Johnson, a 17-season NHL veteran and first overall pick in 2006, spoke from direct playing experience, though the source does not quantify how many players have requested trades this season. The status of Dylan Larkin's request, which has left him sitting out, remains unresolved.
The players
Erik Johnson
A former NHL defenseman and Stanley Cup champion who played 17 seasons and was drafted first overall by the St. Louis Blues in 2006.
Dylan Larkin
A Detroit Red Wings forward who is sitting out after requesting a trade from the team.
Nikita Kucherov
A Tampa Bay Lightning forward who asked to leave the franchise a couple of weeks before the start of November.
Matvei Michkov
A Philadelphia Flyers forward who has been the subject of trade speculation that he and the organization have both denied.
Connor Hellebuyck
A goaltender who was traded from the Winnipeg Jets to the New Jersey Devils earlier this season.
The details
Johnson shared his comments on X following his ESPN appearance and said he had spoken with Larkin's agent, Pat Brisson. He pointed to players seeking trades halfway through contracts they signed in good faith, a situation also seen with Nikita Kucherov's request to leave the Tampa Bay Lightning a couple of weeks ago.
Timeline
Earlier this season: Connor Hellebuyck was traded from the Winnipeg Jets to the New Jersey Devils.
A couple of weeks before November 12, 2026: Nikita Kucherov asked to leave the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Thursday, November 12, 2026: Johnson criticized players requesting trades during his ESPN appearance.
Season Trajectory
Several notable trade situations, including Kucherov's request to leave Tampa Bay and Larkin's request to leave Detroit, have unfolded this season alongside Hellebuyck's move to New Jersey. Johnson's remarks place a veteran's view on that wave of player movement and the expectations players face under existing contracts.
Fans following fantasy hockey or tracking rosters should watch whether Larkin, Kucherov, or Michkov are traded, since any move would change their team situations and lineup roles. Trade outcomes will also determine which players are available to contending teams during the remainder of the season.
The takeaway
Johnson's comments highlight the tension between contract commitments and player autonomy in the NHL. Readers tracking the league can watch how the pending requests from Larkin and Kucherov are resolved, as those outcomes will set expectations for future trade demands.
Further reading
For more on the league's trade activity, browse our Hockey coverage.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Times of India.
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