On Aug. 29, 2024, the hockey world lost two influential players: John Gaudreau and his brother Matthew Gaudreau. The Hockey community has continued to honor their lives; more specifically, the National Hockey League has recognized John Gaudreau’s lasting impact on hockey. 

Early on in the season, John Gaudreau was honored in various ways. Memorials stand in front of the Columbus Blue Jackets Nationwide arena and the Calgary Flames Scotiabank Saddledome, the two teams Gaudreau split his time in the NHL. There is also a memorial for Gaudreau inside the Nationwide Arena in the fanzone, and his jersey continues to hang in his stall inside the locker room. Outside these two teams, other NHL players walked in with #13 jerseys, John Gaudreau’s number and holding his favorite candies and Gatorade. 

As the season progressed, the NHL’s respect for the Gaudreaus did not wear off. On Dec 3, CBJ traveled to Calgary to face the Flames. The Flames held a pregame tribute highlighting John Gaudreau’s hockey legacy in Calgary. For the puck drop, John Gaudreau’s wife, parents, sister and two children were on the ice to watch two of his good friends and teammates take face-off. 

More recently, John Gaudreau was honored on March 1st before the Stadium Series game between Columbus and Detroit. The Blue Jackets entered Ohio Stadium wearing an outfit inspired by John Gaudreau, so he was present on the special day. A video of Kent Johnson (Right wing for CBJ) shows that the hoodie worn is from a small beach shop Gaudreau loved, a pair of Uggs and a nice hat. 

The NHL has also shown endless support and inclusivity to his family. His father, Guy Gaudreau, has been invited to practice with his team; his mother, Jane Gaudreau, traveled with the team for the “Mom’s trip,” and John’s wife, Meredith Gaudreau, has continued to be involved with the CBJ wives. Across social media, Meredith shows many of John’s teammates supporting their children.