Avalanche pull ultimate classy move towards Jack Jonhson right before facing him on opening night

The Colorado Avalanche begin their title defense as the Chicago Blackhawks roll into Denver to kick off their 2022-23 season on Wednesday night. However, the pregame started off with the Stanley Cup Banner Raising Ceremony at Ball Arena, and the Avs players put the rivalry aside to invite their former teammate, defenseman Jack Joshnon, to join them at center ice as the banner made it to the rafters.

Johnson signed a one-year contract over the offseason with the Blackhawks. But for the ceremony, the Avalanche made him feel like he was part of the team once again. This is incredible:

Johnson knew his return to Colorado would be emotional. On Monday night, Johnson officially got his championship ring after the Colorado Avalanche held a private dinner ceremony.

When asked about the championship banner ceremony ahead of the game, Johnson didn’t seem to know how he would be involved, but his former teammates made sure he was there to enjoy every bit of it.

"I have no idea," Johnson had said earlier this week. "No idea. If I'm not, I'll be on the ice eventually and I'll take a good look at it and take it in, because it's special. ... It's going to be a special night and there will be tons of emotions."

On top of that, Johnson got a nice tribute video and a standing ovation for his one highly memorable season in Denver.

Well done, Avalanche!