Erik Johnson Joins Silver Stick Club with 1,000 NHL Games

On November 16, 2024, defenseman Erik Johnson became the 15th player to reach the Silver Stick milestone for playing 1,000 career NHL regular season games while donning the Philadelphia Flyers uniform. Although he has been with the Flyers for only a brief period, Johnson’s achievement is notable in his extensive hockey career.

Johnson’s accomplishment is reminiscent of several Flyers legends who have previously attained the Silver Stick status. Bobby Clarke was the first Flyer to reach this milestone on October 23, 1982, further cementing his status as a franchise icon.

Darryl Sittler, although best known for his time with the Toronto Maple Leafs, also achieved this landmark during his tenure with the Flyers. Sittler concluded his career with 1,096 games spread across Toronto, Philadelphia, and Detroit.

Other notable Flyers who have reached this landmark include Craig MacTavish on December 19, 1995; Luke Richardson on February 1, 2001; and Mark Recchi, whose significant contributions across various teams led him to play his 1,000th game on March 23, 2002, while with the Flyers.

Jeremy Roenick, inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2024, and Eric Desjardins, another Flyers Hall of Famer, also etched their names into history by reaching their 1,000th game milestones during their time with Philadelphia.

As Erik Johnson reflects on his journey, he acknowledges the many injuries and obstacles he faced since being drafted first overall by the St. Louis Blues in 2006. «I’ve certainly played long enough to have hit it a while ago. … I just love coming to the rink, showing up and playing and working,» Johnson told NHL journalist Adam Kimelman.

Johnson expressed his gratitude through social media, «I am so grateful to have played my 1000th game as a Flyer. Thank you to everyone who has helped me along the way. I can’t wait to celebrate Monday with everyone. Extra special to have that celebration be with the team where I spent so many great years.»

The Flyers marked the occasion with a ceremony, despite Johnson’s short stint with the team, showing respect and acknowledgment for his overarching career achievements. Erik Johnson now joins the elite company of Flyers who have reached this celebrated milestone, further adding to his legacy in the NHL.