Blues' Johnson Likely Sidelined for Season with Knee Injury

The St. Louis Blues got a bit of bad news on Tuesday about young defenseman Erik Johnson. He will likely be sidelined for the entire 2008-09 season with a torn ACL and MCL in his right knee. Right now, the Blues are saying he is sidelined indefinitely. Initially it was believed that Johnson would miss just training camp. Johnson injured his knee as he climbed out of a golf cart to take a shot. He jammed his right foot between the accelerator and brake pedals and felt pain in his right knee. He is expected to have surgery within the next three to four weeks. Last season, his first in the NHL, Johnson scored five goals and added 28 assists for 33 points in 69 games with the Blues. Johnson's injury come as a huge blow to the Blues' defense, as they will miss his physical presence and defensive talent on the blueline. The injury has brought about rumors in recent days about the Blues now having interest in Mathieu Schneider, whom Anaheim is still trying to trade. Schneider would be a welcome addition to the Blues' defense, as he would provide lots of offensive experience, veteran depth, and leadership to a young Blues team.