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By Josh Hall | @Vancan19
the hockey world reacts

Former Calgary Flames superstar Johnny Gaudreau and brother Matthew tragically pass away, Blue Jackets confirm

Aug 30, 2024 | 6:24 AM

Hockey fans are waking up to the unimaginable news that superstar Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew have tragically died.

A report from WPVI (ABC 6) appears to confirm the brothers were cyclists when they were struck and killed by another vehicle Thursday night in Salem County, New Jersey. The report also notes that the driver was allegedly impaired by alcohol, according to police investigation.

Reaction from the hockey world has begun to pour in, including from NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman.

“The National Hockey League family is shocked and saddened by the tragic passing of Columbus Blue Jackets forward Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew. While Johnny’s infectious spirit for the game and show-stopping skills on the ice earned him the nickname ‘Johnny Hockey,’ he was more than just a dazzling hockey player; he was a doting father and beloved husband, son, brother and teammate who endeared himself to every person fortunate enough to have crossed his path,” says Bettman.

“Gaudreau often told the story of how his father taught him to skate as a child in his home state of New Jersey and he carried that same youthful passion throughout his 11 NHL seasons. A skilled playmaker, Gaudreau participated in the NHL All-Star Game seven times where he was always a fan favorite, particularly while showcasing his talents in the various skills competitions for which he was so well suited.”

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“It was our privilege to call Johnny our teammate for nine amazing years in Calgary. He came to Calgary as a young man and grew up here, not only as a superstar on the ice, but also a beloved member of our community,” the Flames added on social media platform X.

“The pain we feel for Johnny’s wife Meridith, children Noa & Johnny, parents Jane & Guy, sisters Kristen & Katie, and the entire Gaudreau family is immense. Ownership, management, players, and staff of the Flames express our heartfelt sympathies during their time of sorrow.”

Gaudreau spent nine seasons with the Flames from 2013-14 to 2021-22. There, he put up the fifth-highest career points total in Flames history, according to the NHL.

Over his career, he played 763 games, and posted 243 goals with 500 assists for 743 points. He was drafted in 2011 by Calgary, 104th overall.

Gaudreau won an NCAA title in 2012 and won the Hobey Baker Award in 2014. He was named to the NHL All-Rookie Team in 2015, won the Lady Byng Memorial Trophy in 2017, and was named to the NHL First All-Star Team in 2022. He also won gold at the 2013 IIHF World Juniors in 2013.

Matthew was also a talented hockey player, most recently playing in the 2021-22 season for the ECHL’S Worcester Railers. Matthew also played in the AHL most recently for the Stockton Heat in 2019-20.

More recently, Matthew was head coach for two seasons at Gloucester Catholic High School in New Jersey, the brothers’ home state.

Both brothers also had successful multi-year stints at Boston College, including together in 2013-14 when Johnny won the Hobey Baker.

Johnny Gaudreau was 31. Matthew was 29.

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by Josh Hall | @Vancan19

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