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NHL legend Jaromir Jagr recently shared a tribute to his former teammate, Johnny Gaudreau. Gaudreau, known as "Johnny Hockey," and his brother Matthew tragically died in a biking accident on August 29, 2024.
Gaudreau and Jagr played together for the Calgary Flames. In the 2017-18 season, Gaudreau assisted on Jagr's 766th and final NHL goal. In his tribute, Jagr expressed his disbelief.
"I honestly never thought I'd write a text like this to a post," Jagr wrote as he remembered that last goal, "Yes, that was my last NHL goal. Yes, it was a pretty nice goal. Yes, it was a beautiful pass above all. Unfortunately, life can sometimes be incredibly cruel."
Jagr thanked Gaudreau for inspiring smaller players in the NHL.
"Thank you Johnny Gaudreau for being there and giving hope to all the guys with your incredible performances that though they are not the biggest and toughest, they can succeed at the NHL world class just like you did." Jagr wrote, "My condolences to the whole family. R.I.P. to you and your brother."
The accident happened in Oldmans Township, New Jersey. Johnny Gaudreau and Matthew were biking when a car struck them. The driver, Sean M. Higgins, was arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto. He was suspected of being under the influence of alcohol.
Wayne Gretzky's tribute to Johnny Gaudreau and Matthew
NHL legend Wayne Gretzky also shared his sadness over the tragic deaths of Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew. Gretzky said his family was devastated and sent love and prayers to the Gaudreau family.
"Janet, myself, and our entire family are devastated at this senseless tragedy. We are sending our love, thoughts, and prayers to the Gaudreau family. We lost two great young men who were loved and a huge presence both on and off the ice. Johnny and Matthew, you will always be remembered and missed," Gretzky tweeted for Gaudreau brothers
Johnny Gaudreau played for the Calgary Flames and later the Columbus Blue Jackets. He leaves behind his wife, Meredith, and two children. Matthew Gaudreau coached hockey at Gloucester Catholic High School in New Jersey. He is survived by his wife, Madeline, who is expecting.
Johnny Gaudreau's uncle Jim responded
Johnny Gaudreau and Matthew's uncle, Jim Gaudreau, shared the family's deep grief, saying they lost two beloved husbands, fathers, sons, brothers, and friends.
“Last night we lost two husbands, two fathers, two sons, two brothers, two sons and brothers-in-law, two nephews, two cousins, two family members, two teammates, two friends but truly two amazing humans," Jim Gaudreau, said in a statement.
The family appreciates the support but asks for privacy during this difficult time. The Columbus Blue Jackets also expressed their shock and sadness.
