"Blue Jackets to honor Gaudreau siblings throughout the year"
The Columbus Blue Jackets intend to pay tribute to Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau during the upcoming NHL season.
Johnny Gaudreau spent the last two seasons with the Blue Jackets after playing with the Calgary Flames for over eight years. Tragically, he and his younger brother, Matthew, who also played hockey at Boston College, were killed by a suspected drunk driver while riding bikes near their hometown in New Jersey last month.
Starting with the team's preseason opener against the Buffalo Sabres on Monday, Blue Jackets players will wear a sticker on their helmets until the 2024-25 season. The blue decal, with gray accents, will feature their last name surrounded by two doves and Johnny's No. 13 and Matthew's college number, 21, in white.
During their first preseason home game against the St. Louis Blues two days later, a moment of silence will be held to honor the brothers.
Throughout the regular season, which begins on October 10 against the Minnesota Wild, the Blue Jackets will wear Johnny's No. 13 on their jerseys.
More events to commemorate the brothers will be announced at a later date.
