On Tuesday night time at Nationwide Enviornment in Columbus, it was about a lot extra than simply hockey.
Within the Blue Jackets’ first dwelling recreation for the reason that tragic Aug. 29 deaths of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, the staff honoured the 2 brothers who shall be within the hearts of the hockey world all season lengthy.
The tributes began with each the Blue Jackets and visiting Florida Panthers all sporting Johnny Gaudreau jerseys of their pre-game warmup.
Along with donning Gaudreau jerseys throughout warm-ups, the Panthers disembarked from their bus at Nationwide Enviornment holding purple Gatorade and Skittles — two of Gaudreau’s favorite treats.
Lots of Gaudreau’s household and pals have been in attendance for the sport. Earlier than puck drop, the Blue Jackets welcomed Gaudreau’s spouse Meredith and their two youngsters, Noa and Johnny Jr., to the ice after an emotional tribute video performed on the jumbotron.
Along with his spouse and kids on the ice, the Blue Jackets then raised a banner with Gaudreau’s No. 13 jersey to the rafters. As Meredith left the ice, chants of “Johnny Hockey” erupted via the world.
The banner elevating was adopted by a video message from Meredith wherein she inspired the followers and gamers to not be unhappy, however to be impressed by Gaudreau’s tragically brief life.
“When it’s time to drop the puck, let’s love the sport John cherished,” Meredith mentioned.
The emotional night time continued proper via puck drop, because the Blue Jackets began the sport and not using a left winger in tribute to their former celebrity. Sean Monahan, one in every of Gaudreau’s finest pals from their time along with the Calgary Flames, received the draw earlier than the groups paused for 13 seconds.
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Johnny and Matthew have been killed in August when a suspected drunk driver struck them as they rode their bikes in Oldmans Township, N.J.
Since their loss of life, tributes have poured in from throughout the league. Many groups honoured the fallen brothers with moments of silence or celebration earlier than pre-season video games over the previous few weeks. At Calgary’s dwelling opener on Saturday, the Flames confirmed a four-minute montage of highlights from “Johnny Hockey” whereas he was sporting the flaming C. League-wide, helmets worn by gamers will function a No. 13 and 21 decal — the numbers worn by Johnny and Matthew, respectively.
— With information from the Related Press
