As the NHL prepares for the 2024-25 season, the Columbus Blue Jackets will commemorate the poignant memory of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau with a series of heartfelt tributes. These tributes come in the wake of a tragic bicycle accident last month that claimed the lives of the Gaudreau brothers.
Remembering Johnny and Matthew
Johnny Gaudreau, a standout player known for donning the number 13 jersey throughout his NHL career, and his brother Matthew, who wore number 21 at Boston College, were both lost in a devastating accident involving a drunk driver. The somber news resonated deeply within the hockey community, prompting the Blue Jackets to honor their memories throughout the upcoming season.
In a touching gesture, Blue Jackets players will wear special helmet stickers from their first preseason game against the Buffalo Sabres on September 23. These stickers, blue with gray trim, feature "GAUDREAU" encasing two doves between the numbers 13 and 21, symbolizing the brothers' cherished bond.
Season-Long Tributes
The homage does not stop at helmet stickers. The team will also don a special patch bearing Johnny’s number 13 on their jerseys throughout the entire season. This emblem will serve as a continual reminder of Gaudreau's contributions both on and off the ice.
Before their first home preseason game against the St. Louis Blues on September 25, the Blue Jackets will hold a moment of silence to honor Johnny and Matthew. This solemn reflection is expected to be an emotional time for the team and fans alike, providing an opportunity to offer their respects and remember the brothers.
Supporting a Cause
In addition to these tributes, the Blue Jackets organization has announced a unique 50/50 raffle to be held during all four home preseason games. The proceeds from these raffles will go to the John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation, further solidifying the brothers' legacy and supporting causes they held dear.
The Blue Jackets' first regular season game is set to take place on October 10 against the Minnesota Wild. The team will again celebrate Johnny and Matthew's memory in their home opener against the Florida Panthers on October 15. In a special tribute to Johnny, all attending fans will receive a replica of his No. 13 patch, creating a sea of global support and remembrance within the crowd.
Community Support and Healing
The tragic circumstances under which the Gaudreau brothers were lost continue to weigh heavily on the community. The accident, which occurred in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, was caused by a drunk driver who has since been arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto. The Blue Jackets’ planned tributes aim to foster a sense of community healing and raise awareness around the dangers of impaired driving.
As the Blue Jackets gear up for what promises to be an emotional season, the commemorations of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau will serve as a poignant reminder of their impact and the enduring spirit they brought to the sport and their communities.