The Columbus Blue Jackets are set to honor the memory of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau throughout the 2024-25 season, paying tribute in several heartfelt ways after the tragic loss of the brothers in a bicycle accident last month.
The tribute will begin with the players donning special helmet stickers in memory of Johnny and Matthew starting from their first preseason game against the Buffalo Sabres on September 23. These stickers will be adorned with "GAUDREAU" encasing two doves set between the numbers 13 and 21, signifying the jersey numbers Johnny and Matthew wore, respectively. Johnny Gaudreau, an accomplished NHL player, wore number 13 throughout his career, while Matthew carried the number 21 during his time at Boston College.
A Season of Remembrance
The Blue Jackets' players will continue to wear these helmet stickers for the duration of the 2024-25 season, ensuring that Johnny and Matthew's memory is consistently honored. Additionally, a special moment of silence is planned before their first home preseason game against the St. Louis Blues on September 25.
The team's efforts extend beyond on-ice tributes. A unique 50/50 raffle will be conducted during all four preseason home games. Proceeds from this raffle will benefit the John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation, ensuring that their legacy supports meaningful causes.
Significant Dates
The commemorations are set to be present on several key dates throughout the season. The first regular-season game against the Minnesota Wild on October 10 will see players wearing a special patch bearing Johnny’s number 13 on their jerseys—a tribute that will continue all season long. Furthermore, during their home opener against the Florida Panthers on October 15, each attending fan will receive a replica of this No. 13 patch, fostering a collective remembrance among the Blue Jackets' community.
The Incident and Its Aftermath
Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau were tragically struck by a drunk driver while riding their bicycles in Oldmans Township, New Jersey. This devastating incident has had a profound impact not only on their family but also within the broader hockey community. The driver responsible was subsequently arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto.
By honoring them throughout the season, the Columbus Blue Jackets aim to commemorate the lives and spirit of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, while also drawing attention to the broader issues of road safety and the consequences of drunk driving. The tributes planned signify a unified front from the players, organization, and fans alike in remembering two beloved individuals who made a lasting impact on those around them.
In the face of such a tragic loss, the Blue Jackets' solidary gestures highlight the close-knit nature of the hockey community and its capacity to come together in moments of both triumph and sorrow. The ongoing season promises to keep the memory of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau alive, reminding everyone involved of the profound and lasting impact they had both on and off the ice.