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On Sunday, Columbus Blue Jackets center Sean Monahan received the first "donkey" cap after the team's 6-4 win over the Colorado Avalanche. The award carries special meaning because it pays tribute to Gaudreau, Monahan’s close friend and former Calgary Flames teammate, who passed away in August.
Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew, tragically died in a bike crash caused by a driver under the influence. The accident happened in New Jersey just before their sister's wedding, where they were supposed to be groomsmen.
The Blue Jackets added a "13" patch to the award, honoring Gaudreau’s jersey number and his playful habit of calling teammates "donkey."
After the game, Monahan spoke about receiving a postgame donkey.
[5:26] "Yeah I know it's, I mean be honest It's emotional." Manohan said to media. "It's nice I mean it's nice to get our first win. You feel the love from this organization. I feel the love from my teammates and obviously I can feel the love from John (Johnny)."
Monahan played a key role in the win, scoring a power-play goal and adding two assists. His performance was more than just about the game. It showed how much Gaudreau’s memory still motivates the team.
Sean Monahan talked about previous conversation with Johnny Gaudreau
The reporter questioned the Blue Jackets' struggle with holding third-period leads and whether Manohan talked to Gaudreau about the Blue Jackets, since he was not with the team.
"Yeah, I mean, to be honest, we didn't really talk much about that." Manohan said, "We had a pretty unique relationship. I mean, obviously, we talked about hockey, how he was doing. I would follow him closely, but that wasn't a conversation we had."
Blue Jackets head coach praised Sean Monahan
Coach Dean Evason praised Sean Monahan’s leadership and chemistry with his linemates. When asked about the trio's (Yegor Chinakhov, Monahan, and Kirill Marchenko) development over three games, Evason said:
"Yeah, I would agree they, um, you know, they've got a lot of chemistry."
Evason mentioned that the two Russian players likely had some connection before, but Monahan fit in quickly.
"Monty is just, I’m sure, an easy guy to play with because he does all the little things right," he said.
Evason also highlighted Monahan's calm demeanor and leadership.
"He’s got great leadership qualities and plays the right way in all three zones," he said.
Next, the Blue Jackets will play the Florida Panthers on Tuesday at Nationwide Arena, Columbus (7:00 p.m. EDT).
