It’s been an emotional rollercoaster for the hockey world. Ever since the tragic deaths of Johnny Gaudreau and Matthew Gaudreau, there have been so many tributes from both players and fans.

A candlelight vigil was held last Wednesday, Sep. 4 at Front Street Plaza outside Nationwide Arena in Columbus. The Blue Jackets streamed the event live on YouTube.

On Monday at 12 PM, a memorial service will be held for family and close friends of John and Matthew Gaudreau. They will be live streaming the event on their official site. It’ll take place inside the arena.

Flames Remember Johnny Hockey

The Calgary Flames held a candlelight vigil on Sept. 4 outside Scotiabank Saddledome. They also live streamed the event on their social media channels. Similar to the Blue Jackets, a digital candle was available on the Flames app.

Flames captain Mikael Backlund made an emotional speech about former teammate Johnny Gaudreau. It was very well done. He remembered how Gaudreau prepared for games and how he was off the ice. To hear him tell it, Johnny Hockey kept things very loose. Something an emotional Backlund said he’s working on. It certainly was hard to watch.

The Flames will hold a memorial service for the family of Johnny and Matthew at 10 AM on Monday, Sep. 9.

Caufield Will Change Jersey to Number 13

How much does Johnny Gaudreau mean to USA Hockey? Plenty. In an announcement, Cole Caufield revealed that he will change his jersey to number 13 for the 2024-25 season.

The Montreal Canadiens forward made the announcement on Instagram. He is switching to No. 13 to honor Gaudreau.

“I wore 13 at a point in my career because of Johnny and now I will be wearing it again to honor him. He paved the way for smaller players and proved we had a future in the game at the highest level. I will be forever grateful to him for inspiring me and others.

Rest in Peace, Johnny Hockey.”

It’s a classy gesture. What Caufield said about Gaudreau is true. Johnny was so creative on the ice. His unique blend of speed, skill, and hockey IQ made him an exciting star. He had great hands. A game that once favored bigger and stronger players has trended towards smaller and faster players. Teams are no longer afraid to draft undersized players. It’s a different era.

Saying Goodbye Is Never Easy

It’s never easy to say goodbye. Having attended wakes, I believe in being there to support our friends and family. As difficult as it may be, all we can do is come and lend a helping hand.

When they hold the memorial services in Columbus and Calgary, there won’t be a dry eye. It’s still hard to believe Johnny and Matthew are gone. Honoring who they were is the best way to handle such a tragedy. Having heard enough stories, it sounds like both Gaudreau brothers were a pleasure to be around. God bless the family.