The Columbus Blue Jackets and Florida Panthers honored the late Johnny Gaudreau in an emotional tribute as Tuesday’s sport kicked off. For the Blue Jackets, the tributes started earlier within the afternoon and forward of their residence opener. The Panthers joined in when the sport formally started. It was a heartbreaking, however lovely second.
Gaudreau’s tragic passing this offseason shocked the hockey world. He leaves behind a younger household, in addition to his mother and father and siblings, who additionally suffered the heartbreaking lack of Johnny’s brother, Matthew Gaudreau. It was a troublesome day for gamers and followers, however it added to the sport and supplied a second hockey followers will always remember.
Earlier than the sport, the Blue Jackets shared a heartfelt message on social media, stating, “Tonight we honor the lasting affect that Johnny Gaudreau has made on the sport of hockey, town of Columbus, his household, pals, and teammates, and all those that will proceed to be impressed by his play.”
The group raised a banner in Gaudreau’s reminiscence, celebrating his legacy and the long-lasting No. 13 jersey. The pregame ceremony noticed heavy feelings as Gaudreau’s former teammate, Sean Monahan, held Gaudreau’s younger son whereas his household seemed on.
Blue Jackets and Panthers Maintain Particular Gaudreau Sport Opening Faceoff
To mark the beginning of the sport, the Blue Jackets left the left-wing place vacant, the place Gaudreau would have performed. The sport paused for 13 seconds in his honor, a shifting second that resonated with the gamers, followers, and Gaudreau’s family members in attendance.
All through the 2024-25 season, the Blue Jackets mentioned they may hold Gaudreau’s reminiscence alive with a particular tribute for followers at Nationwide Enviornment. This features a duplicate of his locker, showcasing his game-worn jerseys, tools, and objects from the fan memorial arrange in his honor.
Gaudreau’s legacy as a member of the Calgary Flames and Columbus Blue Jackets won’t ever be forgotten, however the tribute was a touching reminder of his contribution to the sport and the way a lot he meant to everybody he knew and performed in entrance of.
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