Emotional Tribute at Nationwide Arena Columbus Blue Jackets Honor Johnny Gaudreau

The Columbus Blue Jackets’ home opener against the Florida Panthers on Tuesday was filled with excitement, highlighted by the pounding beats of Bush’s “Machinehead” echoing through Nationwide Arena. With a sellout crowd of 18,484, the atmosphere was electric. But amid the cheers and celebration, one vital presence was notably absent left wing Johnny Gaudreau.

A Touching Gesture

As the puck dropped, silence fell over the arena. Columbus center Sean Monahan, a former teammate of Gaudreau’s from the Calgary Flames, tapped the puck to Florida’s Sam Bennett. Bennett, also a former teammate, placed the puck in Gaudreau’s vacant position, stirring emotions throughout the arena. “It hit everybody,” said Blue Jackets coach Dean Evason, reflecting on the moment. The teams paused for 13 seconds, symbolizing Gaudreau’s number, as the crowd stood and cheered, chanting “JOHN-NY HOCK-EY!”

Remembering a Life Cut Short

This poignant moment was part of a broader tribute to Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew, who tragically passed away in August. They were struck by an alleged drunk driver while riding their bicycles in Salem County, New Jersey. Johnny, a key player for Columbus, was only 31, while Matthew was 29.

Players from both teams carried Johnny’s favorite treats Skittles and purple Gatorade into the arena, a heartfelt gesture initiated by forward Matthew Tkachuk. “Johnny was a huge part of the hockey community, but to me, he was much more than that,” Tkachuk said.

Honoring Legacy A Tribute to Gaudreau

Before the game, a large banner reading “JOHNNY GAUDREAU 1993-2024” adorned Nationwide Arena, alongside No. 13 painted on the ice. Each team donned No. 13 jerseys during warm-ups, and a video montage celebrated Johnny’s life and career, showcasing his love for family and the game.

As the teams lined up for the national anthem, Johnny’s wife, Meredith, spoke via video message. “I don’t want anyone to be sad,” she said. “I want you all to be inspired by the life that John lived.”

Despite the emotional weight of the evening, the game continued. Columbus fought hard, with Monahan scoring at 11:22 of the second period, pointing to Gaudreau’s banner. Ultimately, the Blue Jackets fell to the defending Stanley Cup champions, 4-3, but the spirit of Johnny Gaudreau resonated throughout the match.

“Johnny was watching down on us today,” Monahan reflected. “I had a feeling I was going to get one. Unfortunately, we lost, but I definitely could feel John today.”

The tribute to Johnny Gaudreau was more than just a moment of silence; it was a celebration of his life and the impact he had on his family, friends, and the hockey community. As players, fans, and loved ones came together, the spirit of unity and remembrance filled Nationwide Arena, reminding everyone of the bonds that hockey creates both on and off the ice.