In a touching gesture, the Columbus Blue Jackets will pay a moving tribute to Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau throughout the 2024-25 season. The hockey community was struck with sorrow last month when the Gaudreau brothers tragically lost their lives in a bicycle accident involving a drunk driver in Oldmans Township, New Jersey. The driver has since been arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto.
To honor their memory, the Blue Jackets will don special helmet stickers starting from their first preseason game against the Buffalo Sabres on September 23. These stickers, blue with gray trim, prominently feature "GAUDREAU" encasing two doves between the numbers 13 and 21. Johnny Gaudreau, well-known for his remarkable NHL career, wore number 13, while his brother Matthew sported the number 21 during his time at Boston College.
A Season-Long Tribute
The Blue Jackets have committed to wearing these helmet stickers throughout the entire season. The sentiments behind this tribute extend beyond the players' helmets; on October 10, the team will also begin wearing a special patch bearing Johnny’s number 13 on their jerseys for all games.
The first home preseason game against the St. Louis Blues on September 25 will feature a moment of silence to honor Johnny and Matthew. This act of remembrance is expected to resonate deeply with fans and players alike, offering a collective moment to reflect on the lives and legacies of the Gaudreau brothers.
Supporting the Gaudreau Foundation
In addition to these on-ice tributes, the Blue Jackets have organized a unique 50/50 raffle to be held during all four home preseason games. Proceeds from the raffle will benefit the John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation, aiming to turn the brothers' legacy into a force for positive change.
The Blue Jackets' first regular season game against the Minnesota Wild on October 10 will mark another significant moment in this season-long tribute. Furthermore, during the team’s home opener against the Florida Panthers on October 15, all attending fans will receive a replica of the No. 13 patch, ensuring that Johnny's memory is shared and cherished by the community.
This comprehensive tribute from the Columbus Blue Jackets not only honors Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau but also underscores the tight-knit nature of the hockey community. Through helmet stickers, jersey patches, moments of silence, and philanthropic efforts, the Blue Jackets are ensuring that the brothers' contributions to the sport and their spirit of resilience and dedication will be remembered for years to come.