The Columbus Blue Jackets have announced a poignant tribute in memory of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau throughout the 2024-25 season. The brothers tragically passed away in a bicycle accident last month, and the team has planned several initiatives to honor their memory.
Tributes and Special Helmets
One of the most visible tributes will be the special helmet stickers the Blue Jackets will wear starting from their first preseason game against the Buffalo Sabres on September 23. The stickers, designed with blue and gray trim, will prominently feature "GAUDREAU" encasing two doves, positioned between the numbers 13 and 21. Johnny Gaudreau wore number 13 during his illustrious NHL career, while Matthew Gaudreau donned the number 21 during his time at Boston College.
The players will feature these commemorative helmet stickers throughout the entire season, ensuring that the memory of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau remains fresh in the minds of fans and players alike.
Moments of Silence and Special Events
Before the first home preseason game against the St. Louis Blues on September 25, the Blue Jackets will hold a moment of silence in honor of Johnny and Matthew. This marks the beginning of what promises to be a season filled with remembrance and reflection.
Additionally, a unique 50/50 raffle will be held during all four of the team’s home preseason games. The proceeds from these raffles will go to the John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation, extending the impact of their memory beyond the rink.
Season-Long Honors
The first regular-season game against the Minnesota Wild on October 10 will be particularly significant this year as the Blue Jackets will wear a special patch bearing Johnny’s number 13 on their jerseys. This patch will be a constant feature throughout the entire season, symbolizing the team's commitment to honoring Johnny's contribution to hockey.
Fans will also play a significant role in the remembrance events. For the home opener against the Florida Panthers on October 15, all attending fans will receive a replica of the No. 13 patch, creating a unified visual tribute within the arena.
A Tragic Incident
The Gaudreau brothers were struck by a drunk driver while riding bicycles in Oldmans Township, New Jersey. This tragic accident has cast a shadow over the community and the hockey world. The driver involved in the incident was arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto, highlighting the gravity of the incident and the lives lost.
As the Columbus Blue Jackets move forward with their season, the memory of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau will serve as a beacon of their enduring legacy, both on and off the ice. The team’s thoughtful and heartfelt tributes are a testament to the profound impact the brothers had on those around them and the wider community.