Erik Johnson is shouldering the blame for Colorado's inability to qualify for the postseason.
The Avalanche defenseman - whose seven-year, $42-million extension kicks in next season - openly admits he has to be better in order for the team to succeed. For head coach Patrick Roy, it's not necessarily about piling up points as a high-paid player, but rather being more responsible defensively, and particularity at even strength.
"(Johnson) doesn't have to step up because of that contract," Roy said Friday. "He has to step up because we need E.J. It's as simple as that. He needs to be a plus player. And the same thing with (Tyson Barrie).
"Look around the league, look at the defensemen, and if they are plus, that's how those teams are winning."
Only six Avalanche players finished at zero or above in plus/minus this season, with Johnson (-19) and Barrie (-15) finishing ahead of only Jarome Iginla (-23).
There's some debate as to the merits of that stat when more advanced metrics are available, but Roy thinks it's a big deal and believes Johnson and Barrie can and will make adjustments to improve.
"The thing I love about E.J. and Tice is that they're very receptive, they want to do well. Sometimes it affects our play, because they're pushing a little harder than they should. They should remain (back)."
Speaking of advanced stats, the Avalanche rank dead last in Corsi For at even strength (44.1), suggesting issues run deep in Colorado.
As far as Johnson is concerned, that's due to the players' failure to execute the coach's plan.
"Every night we have a great game plan and we try to execute it," he said. "We adjust to each team on any given night. It's definitely not a system issue with what the coaches put out there.
"It's definitely on us players, on the core of the team, that we didn't make the playoffs, and we have to look in the mirror and realize we have to be better."
