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The Columbus Blue Jackets honored Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew before their home opener against the Florida Panthers. Gaudreau's No. 13 banner was raised, and the lineup left his spot empty. Fans and players observed a 13-second tribute to show their support.
Johnny's wife, Meredith, thanked the fans in a video, saying their love helped her family.
"Hey fifth line, I want to thank you all for your support in this time. Your outpouring of love has helped our family tremendously." Meredith said.
She encouraged everyone to be inspired by Johnny's life and love for the game.
"As the team gets ready to take a warmup before the game. I don't want anyone l to be sad, I want you all to be inspired by the life that John lived. That means love your family first and foremost and when it's time to drop the puck. Let's love the game John loved. Thank you and Go Jackets!" she added.
New Jersey Devils goalie Jacob Markstrom's partner Amanda Markstrim shared Meredith's video and praised her strength.
"@meredithgaudreau so beautiful. strongest person I know" Amanda wrote.
Johnny Gaudreau and Matthew died in a bike accident on August 29 in New Jersey. They were hit by a car while biking. The driver, Sean M. Higgins, was suspected of being under the influence of alcohol. He was charged with two counts of death by auto.
NHL players on Johnny Gaudreau receiving the honor in home opener
During the Columbus Blue Jackets' home opener, the team paid tribute to Johnny Gaudreau. Columbus center Sean Monahan felt the impact when he tapped the puck. The crowd was chanting, “JOHN-NY HOCK-EY!”
"It was hard, to be honest," Monahan said via NHL.com. “It was a special, special moment that I’ll remember forever."
“It means a lot for his family, his wife, his kids, the way they honored him here. I mean, the whole League. The Florida Panthers behind the ceremony there, showing their support, yeah, it means a lot.”
Florida players showed their support by bringing Skittles and purple Gatorade, two of Johnny’s favorites. Matthew Tkachuk, who also played with Gaudreau, said:
“Johnny was a huge part of the hockey community, but to me, he was much more than that. A great friend, teammate and family man. Not a day goes by without me thinking about Johnny and Matthew.”
The Blue Jackets lost 4-3 to the defending Stanley Cup champions, including a goal from Monahan, pointing to Johnny Gaudreau’s banner.
