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Flames and Blue Jackets Reflect on Johnny Gaudreau's Impact

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Flames and Blue Jackets Reflect on Johnny Gaudreau’s Impact

August 30, 2024

An empty and silent Saddledome featured a tribute to former Calgary Flames star Johnny Gaudreau on the scoreboard above centre ice on Friday morning.

The Flames posted a video of the shot of the Columbus Blue Jackets forward in a Flames uniform with the words: “In loving memory”, his name and “1993-2024.”

Gaudreau, 31, and his younger brother Matthew died in New Jersey on Thursday when they were hit by a vehicle while they were riding bicycles. The driver has been charged with driving under the influence of alcohol and charged with two counts of death by auto.

Fans also left items to remember Gaudreau outside the Saddledome, including Skittles and purple Gatorade, per a post from Julian McKenzie of The Athletic.

Gaudreau’s dad helped teach him to skate while spreading Skittles across the ice, while Johnny had a trademark purple Gatorade goal celebration in Calgary.

The Calgary Tower announced the tower would be lit in Flames colours Friday to honour Johnny and Matthew.

In Columbus outside Nationwide Arena, a video board had the words: “In loving memory. Johnny Gaudreau.”

Adam King of 10TV showed footage of people dropping off flowers near the sign. A hockey stick also was dropped off.

The main mural outside the arena features a photo of Gaudreau with his teammates.

Hockey fans in other cities also paid their respects.

In Toronto, one fan put flowers outside Scotiabank Arena.

Johnny Gaudreau, also known as “Johnny Hockey,” has been a key player for the Calgary Flames since he was drafted in 2011. His impact on the team and the league as a whole cannot be understated. As the Flames and Columbus Blue Jackets recently faced off, both teams reflected on Gaudreau’s influence on the game.

Gaudreau’s skill and speed on the ice have made him a standout player in the NHL. His ability to create scoring opportunities and make plays happen has earned him a reputation as one of the most exciting players to watch. His creativity and vision on the ice have helped elevate the Flames’ offense and make them a competitive team in the league.

For the Flames, Gaudreau’s impact goes beyond just his on-ice performance. His work ethic and leadership have set a positive example for his teammates, inspiring them to work harder and strive for success. His presence in the locker room has helped create a winning culture within the organization.

The Blue Jackets, like many other teams in the league, have had to game plan specifically for Gaudreau when facing the Flames. His ability to change the course of a game with his skill and playmaking abilities makes him a player that opponents must always be aware of. The Blue Jackets know that containing Gaudreau is key to shutting down the Flames’ offense and giving themselves a chance to win.

As both teams reflect on Gaudreau’s impact, it is clear that he is a player who has left a lasting impression on the game of hockey. His talent, work ethic, and leadership have made him a valuable asset to the Flames and a player that opponents must always be wary of. Johnny Gaudreau’s impact on the Flames and Blue Jackets will continue to be felt for years to come.