The Columbus Blue Jackets are set to honor the late Johnny Gaudreau in a special tribute event as they open their training camp for the upcoming NHL season. Gaudreau, along with his brother Matthew, tragically lost their lives in a car accident caused by a suspected drunk driver while riding bicycles on August 29. The entire hockey community was shocked and saddened by the news, with many players and teams mourning the loss of the talented brothers.
The Blue Jackets’ Sean Monahan, who signed with the team this summer, spoke about his deep friendship with Gaudreau, whom he referred to as “arguably my best friend.” Monahan, a former teammate of Gaudreau’s in Calgary for nine years, expressed his grief and the difficulty of coming to terms with the loss. He shared that he will miss Gaudreau for the rest of his life and that having his locker stall next to the one reserved for Gaudreau is a special reminder of their bond.
As the team prepares for the season ahead, they have announced plans to honor Gaudreau in various ways. This includes wearing a helmet sticker featuring Gaudreau’s name, two doves, and the numbers 13 and 21, which were the numbers the Gaudreau brothers wore in their hockey careers. The Blue Jackets will also have a No. 13 patch on their jerseys throughout the season and have postponed their traditional opening night festivities to focus on honoring the Gaudreau brothers.
Captain Boone Jenner emphasized the importance of honoring Gaudreau’s memory by continuing to enjoy the game and each other’s company, both in good times and bad. The team is determined to keep Gaudreau’s spirit alive and follow his example of loving every moment on the ice. Monahan, who is now tasked with being a mentor to young centers Adam Fantilli and Cole Sillinger, has received immense support from his new teammates as he navigates this challenging time.
Despite the heartbreaking loss, the Blue Jackets are looking ahead to the season with a renewed sense of purpose and unity. Head coach Dean Evason, who is leading the team through this difficult period, emphasized the importance of moving forward and creating a positive environment for the players. He has implemented changes in the locker room to foster a sense of togetherness and focus on the present rather than dwelling on the past.
The coaching staff has chosen to include Gaudreau in their training camp videos, showcasing both his successes and areas for improvement as a way to honor his legacy. The team is determined to carry on Gaudreau’s teachings and keep his memory alive throughout the season. With a new coach in Evason and a new general manager in Don Waddell, the Blue Jackets are working towards reshaping their culture and accelerating their rebuild to make a playoff push.
As the team comes together to honor Gaudreau and support each other through this challenging time, they are focused on putting their best effort forward on the ice. Monahan, who has been deeply affected by the loss of his close friend, is determined to honor Gaudreau’s memory with his performance and leadership on the team. The Blue Jackets are united in their commitment to carry on Gaudreau’s legacy and make him proud in the upcoming season.