Blue Jackets Pay Heartfelt Tribute to Johnny Gaudreau During Opening Faceoff
Photo credit: NHL
The Columbus Blue Jackets played their first home game of the season tonight, and payed a heartfelt tribute to Johnny Gaudreau before the game, and even during puck drop.
Gaudreau's longtime friend and teammate Sean Monahan stood at center ice with Johnny Gaudreau's young family as the Blue Jackets raised a banner to honour his memory and legacy forever. Gaudreau's parents and sister were also in attendance, and incredibly emotional for the event.
The Blue Jackets then lined up for the opening faceoff with the left wing spot empty, what would've been Gaudreau's position. They ran out the clock for 13 seconds in Gaudreau's memory once more, with the fans on their feet giving their support, before dropping the puck. For every person in the arena, from the fans to referees, it was clearly a very emotional scene
Matthew Tkachuk was unable to play in tonight's game for the Panthers, truly a disappointment that he couldn't be a part of the ceremony for his good friend from the Calgary Flames. Still, Tkachuk encouraged his teammates to arrive with some of Gaudreau's favourite snacks in his memory - a touching personal tribute.
Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau were tragically stricken by a suspected drunk driver in late August of this year, a tragedy that rocked the hockey world to its core. The entire hockey community has come together in mourning at the sudden and shocking loss, especially extending their support to the family.
It was an incredible scene for fans and the hockey world to say one more goodbye to Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau. They may be gone, but they'll never be forgotten.
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