With Johnson's cap hit at $6M, Leafs couldn't effectively fit him in this year and would create all sorts of cap hell for themselves going forward! Colorado would have to hold back at least $2M, throughout the contract.

Cap situation doesn’t work perfectly for the Leafs, but it’s a fantastic idea. Johnson would be a great fit, and the price tag would be stomachable for the Leafs.

Love Johnson, and although Borgman has been really good, I can deal with the loss.

As mentioned above, what would the cost be to get some money retained on that contract?

Erik Johnson makes $6 million for 5 more years you need to think about Marners Nylander and Matthews contracts those 3 combined are probably close to $25 million and Johnson on top of things you're not shedding enough salary here to afford Johnson and you keep forgetting that the Leafs will have about $6 million or so in bonus overage on top of it things next summer good luck making it work out for you.

Avs would either have to take something back or retain on EJ. Therefore not a good fit. Can't see the Avs wanting to retain on that length of contract.