Erik Johnson has decided it is in his best interest to wait until the 2007-2008 season to sign with the St. Louis Blues and play in the NHL.

Johnson will be playing for the St. Louis Blues next season, which you can definitely count on, but turning pro right now doesn't make the most sense for Johnson. If he had been planning all along to play in the NHL this season then he would be mentally prepared to make the jump.

Johnson fully expected to be playing in the NCAA Frozen Four next week in St. Louis.

The idea of turning pro came pretty much spur of the moment after Minnesota was eliminated from the NCAA tournament. Johnson does not feel comfortable making this important of a decision right away. He needs time to make the transition.

Johnson will take the next few days off before getting back in the gym and preparing for his rookie season. He will move to St. Louis a few weeks before training camp begins this summer to allow himself to get acclimated to the city.

Johnson will still meet with his family advisor Pat Brisson later today, but I don't expect the 2006 first overall selection to change his mind.

In my opinion Johnson is making a smart decision. Turning pro this season would be great for the fans and the Blues organization, but there is no reason to rush into things.

If Johnson were to struggle he would have that on his mind all summer. He wants to make sure he is fully prepared to take the next step.

The Blues would welcome Johnson if he decided to turn pro this season, but will fully support his decision to wait. They have said all along it is completely up to Erik Johnson as to what he feels is best for him.


More to come,

Andy Strickland

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