Columbus Blue Jackets Pay Tribute to Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau in Heartfelt Home Opener

Tuesday, October 15th, 2024

During their home opener, the Columbus Blue Jackets allowed Johnny Gaudreau's teammates to express their emotions in whichever way they felt best.

They were encouraged to either cry or laugh and to play in his memory and honor.

A banner was raised in Gaudreau's memory, and both teams honored him with a moment of silence.

Prior to the game, players paused for 13 seconds, marking Gaudreau's number, leaving his spot on the left wing empty.

Johnny Gaudreau's wife, Meredith, spoke to fans, urging them to find inspiration in Gaudreau's passion for life and the game.

Both the Blue Jackets and the Florida Panthers wore jerseys featuring Gaudreau's name and number during the warm-up, and fans were given patches with the number "13."

The Panthers paid tribute to Gaudreau by bringing Gatorade and Skittles, some of his favorite items.

The Blue Jackets created a replica of Gaudreau's locker, allowing fans a place to visit and pay their respects.

Gaudreau started his NHL journey with Calgary, where he left a lasting mark on the league.

The Blue Jackets players have embraced the term "donkey" as a nod to Gaudreau, who affectionately used it for friends and teammates.

Johnny's father, Guy Gaudreau, attended the Blue Jackets' practice and the banner-raising ceremony in honor of his son.

Despite the heartfelt tributes before the game, the Panthers emerged victorious with a score of 4-3.

Panthers coach Paul Maurice highlighted the importance of the tributes and the need to honor Gaudreau's enduring legacy.

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