Touching Tribute: Blue Jackets honor Johnny Gaudreau by starting game without a left winger
The Columbus Blue Jackets have created a heartfelt tribute to honor Johnny Gaudreau before their game against the Florida Panthers on Tuesday.
Gaudreau's tragic passing along with his brother Matthew still weighs heavily on the hearts of family, friends & teammates. Though over a month has passed their loss remains deeply felt. Tributes have poured in from teams, athletes, politicians & fans alike with memorials set up outside the arenas in both Calgary & Columbus.
For their home opener the Blue Jackets set up a memorial inside Nationwide Arena featuring a replica of Gaudreau's locker, his game-worn jersey, sticks & other memorabilia as a loving tribute:
Both teams will also wear Gaudreau's number 13 during warmups further showcasing the deep respect & love for the late player.
Around the NHL teams have honored Gaudreau in many ways including wearing number 13 patches on helmets & some players even changing their jersey numbers in his honor. This support shows how beloved Gaudreau was to the entire hockey community.
It will be an emotional night especially with Gaudreau's family in attendance for the memorial. The Blue Jackets have gone above and beyond to ensure that every tribute to Gaudreau is meaningful and heartfelt.
In addition Panthers forward Matthew Tkachuk a close friend & former teammate of Gaudreau is unable to attend the ceremony due to illness. He issued a statement via social media.
Tkachuk & Gaudreau formed an unforgettable duo during their time in Calgary, and the hockey world mourns the loss of Johnny & Matthew Gaudreau.
