Columbus Blue Jackets honour Johnny Gaudreau and brother in emotional tribute at 2024 home opener

In an emotional ceremony ahead of their 2024 home opener against the Florida Panthers, the Columbus Blue Jackets honored the late Johnny Gaudreau and his younger brother, Matthew, whose tragic deaths in a bike accident on August 29 have deeply affected the hockey community. Gaudreau, a beloved NHL star, was killed alongside his brother when a suspected drunk driver struck them the night before their sister's wedding.

The pregame tribute at Nationwide Arena saw players from both teams wear Gaudreau's No. 13 jerseys during warm-ups. In a powerful moment, Johnny Gaudreau’s widow, Meredith, and his brother-in-law Eddie carried Gaudreau’s children to center ice as a banner with his number and the years "1993-2024" was raised to the rafters. Fans chanted "Johnny Hockey" in tribute to the star player as the team left his position empty during the puck drop, letting 13 seconds run off the clock before resuming the game.
 

Meredith Gaudreau also shared a heartfelt message with fans in a pre-recorded video, encouraging them to celebrate Johnny's life and love for the game. The Gaudreau family continues to cope with the devastating loss, with both Johnny and Matthew’s wives expecting children. The Blue Jackets honored Johnny’s legacy throughout the arena, with fans receiving patches featuring his iconic No. 13 and the game’s puck drop set for 7:13 p.m.