Avalanche acquire Ryan Johansen from Predators in exchange for Alex Galchenyuk

The Colorado Avalanche acquired forward Ryan Johansen from the Nashville Predators on Saturday in exchange for forward Alex Galchenyuk. The Predators will retain 50% of Johansen's contract, which has two years remaining at an average annual value of $8 million.

Johansen appeared in 55 games for the Predators in 2022-23, scoring 12 goals and adding 16 assists. He was much more productive the year prior, tallying 26 goals and 37 assists in 79 contests.

The 30-year-old joined the Predators from the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2015-16 and was a key player during some of the most successful years in the franchise's history.

"On behalf of the Predators organization, we want to thank Ryan for his contributions to our team and community over the last seven-plus years," Predators general manager Barry Trotz said in a press release. "He played a large role in our franchise's accomplishments since arriving in January 2016, helping lead us to the 2017 Stanley Cup Final, the 2018 Presidents' Trophy, back-to-back Central Division titles in 2018 and 2019 and several postseason appearances.

"Ryan also dedicated a considerable amount of time to the Predators Foundation and helped us grow the game in Middle Tennessee, including his work with youth hockey in our community. We wish Ryan all the best in Colorado."

Galchenyuk is scheduled to hit unrestricted free agency on July 1, so the trade appears to simply be a cost-saving move from Nashville's perspective.

The 29-year-old only played in 11 games for the Avalanche last season and failed to register a point. He signed a professional tryout contract with Colorado during training camp, then was demoted to the AHL in December. He appeared in 42 games for the Colorado Eagles, scoring 16 goals and adding 26 assists. He returned to the Avalanche in March and played limited minutes down the stretch of the regular season.

Galchenyuk has bounced around since being drafted third overall by the Montreal Canadiens in 2012. He spent his first six seasons with the Canadiens and has also spent time with the Arizona Coyotes, Minnesota Wild, Toronto Maple Leafs, Pittsburgh Penguins and Ottawa Senators, in addition to the Avalanche.