DENVER — The recent NHL trade deadline saw big changes for some players who went from longtime teammates to rivals almost overnight. Charlie Coyle and Brandon Carlo, formerly of the Boston Bruins, traveled together en route to Colorado after being traded. However, once they landed, their paths diverged: Coyle joined the Avalanche, while Carlo found himself heading to Toronto. Interestingly, the two met on the ice again shortly after as opponent players in their new jerseys.
The same situation unfolded for Philadelphia teammates Scott Laughton and Erik Johnson, who also shared a flight to Denver. Laughton was traded to the Maple Leafs, whereas Johnson made a return to Colorado. As fate would have it, their new teams played against each other Saturday night.
Coyle acknowledged the peculiarity of such encounters, transitioning from teammates to opponents. “It’s funny how things work out,” he remarked. Facing each other in competition can be intriguing when just a short while ago they were team partners.
Before parting ways, Carlo offered Coyle insight about the state of Colorado, where Carlo’s family resides. Having grown up in Colorado Springs, Carlo shared that his dad would be cheering him on at the game. Meanwhile, his mother might have been heading to Boston to assist Carlo’s wife.
“For me, it’s a mix of excitement and anxiety,” said Carlo. Having spent his entire NHL career with Boston so far, he felt reassured meeting the Toronto team. “They really have a fantastic group here, and I am eager to contribute,” Carlo shared.
Laughton described his move to the Maple Leafs as both thrilling and daunting. Being drafted by Philadelphia in 2012, he had built a network of friendships within the team. Transitioning to Toronto puts him closer to family in Oakville, Ontario, adding a sentimental aspect to the trade.
Johnson, meanwhile, found himself returning to familiar territory. After a long stint with the Avalanche, he was back with his former team. Having achieved a Stanley Cup win with them in 2022, the comfort was palpable. Sleeping in his own bed upon returning, he confessed to experiencing a whirlwind of emotions.
Despite being sidelined in Saturday’s game, Johnson, who will soon turn 37, emphasized his readiness to contribute any way he can. This season in Philadelphia hadn’t seen him on the ice much, and while the future might look similar in Colorado, Johnson’s dedication remains unwavering. “I’ll do whatever is needed,” he declared.
Aside from aspiration for another Stanley Cup win, Johnson is set to be a veteran presence in the locker room, partnering with fellow leaders like Cale Makar, Devon Toews, and Nathan MacKinnon. Embodying a balance between seriousness and playfulness, Johnson brings enthusiasm and camaraderie to his familiar No. 6 jersey:
“My goal remains the same: to win,” Johnson concluded, indicating that his mission with Colorado is not just nostalgic, but about aiming high for another championship.
