Blue Jackets Pay Tribute to Gaudreau Brothers in Home Opener
The Columbus Blue Jackets paid a heartfelt tribute to Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau during their home opener at Nationwide Arena. The emotional evening began with a video tribute to Johnny Gaudreau, followed by a 13-second moment of silence in honor of his jersey number, 13. The touching gestures were a poignant reminder of the tragic loss the Gaudreau family and the hockey community have experienced.
Tribute to Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau
Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau tragically lost their lives on August 29 near their childhood home in New Jersey. The brothers were struck by a suspected drunken driver while riding bicycles on the eve of their sister Katie’s wedding. The devastating incident shook the hockey world, as Johnny Gaudreau was a beloved player known for his skill and leadership on and off the ice.
The Blue Jackets’ tribute to the Gaudreau brothers included wearing helmet stickers with “Gaudreau” printed between images of two doves and the brothers’ respective uniform numbers, 13 for Johnny and 21 for Matthew. The team also announced that players will wear a commemorative patch with Johnny Gaudreau’s No. 13 for the upcoming season.
Emotional Impact on the Team
The loss of Johnny Gaudreau has left a significant void in the Blue Jackets organization, both in terms of his on-ice contributions and his presence in the locker room. Players like forward Sean Kuraly have felt the absence of their teammate keenly, reflecting on the moments they shared with Johnny and the impact he had on their lives.
Coach Dean Evason highlighted the close-knit nature of the team, emphasizing the bond that has formed among players as they navigate the grief of losing a beloved teammate. The Blue Jackets must now find a way to move forward in the wake of this tragedy, with a new general manager and coach leading the team into the upcoming season.
Looking Ahead
As the Blue Jackets prepare for the regular season, they are faced with the challenge of honoring Johnny Gaudreau’s memory while also focusing on their performance on the ice. The team’s home opener, originally scheduled for October 15, will now be dedicated to paying tribute to the Gaudreau brothers, with traditional activities postponed to allow for a night of remembrance.
The Blue Jackets’ resilience in the face of adversity has been tested before, most notably with the loss of goaltender Matiss Kivlenieks in 2021. The team has shown strength and unity in times of tragedy, coming together to support one another and honor the memory of those they have lost.
In their preseason victory over the St. Louis Blues, the Blue Jackets demonstrated their determination to compete and succeed in the upcoming season. Players like Denton Mateychuk, Kirill Marchenko, and Kent Johnson showcased their skills on the ice, with Kuraly providing key assists to secure the win.
As the Blue Jackets continue their journey through the preseason and look ahead to the regular season, they carry the memory of Johnny Gaudreau with them. The tributes and gestures of remembrance serve as a reminder of the impact he had on his teammates, the organization, and the hockey community as a whole.