Blue Jackets Reveals Plans to Honor Late Johnny Gaudreau

At the start of the Columbus Blue Jackets training camp, Sean Monahan expressed profound sorrow over the loss of his close friend, Johnny Gaudreau. Monahan, who signed a five-year contract with the Blue Jackets in the summer, shared that he will miss Gaudreau for the rest of his life. Their lockers are situated next to each other, with Monahan acknowledging that it brings back memories of their time together.

Monahan, who joined the Blue Jackets after spending nine seasons in Calgary with Gaudreau, described their relationship as vital, calling Gaudreau “arguably my best friend.” The emotional weight of the season began to settle in during a press conference where Monahan recalled the tragic incident on August 29, when Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew, lost their lives in a suspected drunk driving accident while riding their bicycles.

Wearing a shirt emblazoned with Gaudreau’s number 13, Monahan found it hard to articulate his feelings. “I still don’t know the exact words to even say,” he remarked. The reality of the situation weighs heavily on his mind as he prepares for a new season with his new team. “I’m excited for the season. I’m excited to get it going. We’re going to miss Johnny. I’m going to miss Johnny a lot,” he said. “It’s definitely really hard to get through, but we’ve got a great group here.” 

The Blue Jackets have made plans to honor Gaudreau throughout the upcoming season. Players will wear helmet stickers featuring Gaudreau’s name, two doves, and the numbers 13 and 21—the respective jersey numbers of the Gaudreau brothers. Additionally, a patch bearing the No. 13 will be stitched onto their jerseys, ensuring that his memory is a constant presence on the ice. The traditional opening night festivities have been postponed, with the focus shifted to celebrating Gaudreau and his brother during the season opener at Nationwide Arena on October 15.

Throughout the season, the team will reserve a dedicated locker stall for Gaudreau, displaying his jersey as a tribute both at home games and on the road. Captain Boone Jenner emphasized the importance of honoring the memory of his teammate, stating, “Going to what he would want, it was to just play hockey.” He added that being in the rink was something Gaudreau loved, and the team aims to cherish those moments together.

Monahan’s transition to the Blue Jackets may be complicated due to the heartbreaking circumstances surrounding Gaudreau’s passing. However, several players who had historical connections with both Monahan and Gaudreau are stepping up to offer their support. Defenseman Zach Werenski commended Monahan for showing resilience while acclimating to a new team in this challenging time, acknowledging that Gaudreau was an essential factor in Monahan’s decision to come to Columbus.

The team’s management and coaching staff have recognized the need for collective healing. Their approach involves asking what Johnny would want them to do as they grapple with their loss. Coach Dean Evason revealed that during a gathering the night of Gaudreau’s wake, the leadership group decided that Gaudreau would have wanted them to enjoy a few beers and watch football together. This spirit of camaraderie will guide their interactions this season.

As Columbus embarks on this new chapter under the leadership of coach Evason and general manager Don Waddell, the focus shifts to fostering a positive team culture while aiming for the playoffs for the first time since 2020. Evason initiated changes by restructuring locker assignments and replacing individual photos with group pictures, fostering a sense of togetherness.

Monahan, entering his 12th season in the NHL, acknowledged that he feels the pressure to make a solid impression as the team navigates through this difficult phase. “There is a lot of weight on our shoulders right now,” he admitted. “A huge loss, a special person who is not here. It’s on my mind every day, every second. And we want to put our best foot forward, our best effort out there for John,” Monahan concluded.