Colorado Avalanche facing backlash for disrespecting Johnny Gaudreau against the Columbus Blue Jackets
The Colorado Avalanche celebrated Nathan MacKinnon on Saturday night, but are now facing criticism for not honoring Johnny Gaudreau during their home opener against the Columbus Blue Jackets.
This offseason, the hockey world mourned the tragic passing of Johnny Gaudreau, one of the game's most beloved players. Many teams have paid tribute to Gaudreau early in the season by wearing helmet decals & showing video tributes along with a 13 second moment of silence. These gestures have honored both Johnny & his brother Matthew Gaudreau who have been dearly missed by fans, players & officials alike.
However the Avalanche decided not to follow this tradition during their home opener. Instead they focused on celebrating MacKinnon's Hart Trophy win presenting him with the award in a special ceremony.
While fans appreciated the moment for MacKinnon many on social media believe the team should have also included a tribute to Gaudreau even something as brief as a video package & a moment of silence.
This oversight feels more significant because the Colorado Avalanche were playing the Columbus Blue Jackets which is the team Gaudreau spent the final two years of his career with. Every other NHL team honored the fallen star in some way making the Avalanche look bad.
Although it's unlikely the NHL or other teams will criticize the Avalanche as they were focused on celebrating MacKinnon many fans feel the team missed an important opportunity to honor Gaudreau's legacy during a meaningful game.
