COLUMBUS, Ohio — Just three weeks before the opening of training camp, the Columbus Blue Jackets are seeking to make sense of a senseless tragedy after All-Star winger Johnny Gaudreau and younger brother Matthew died when they were struck by a suspected drunken driver while riding bicycles in their home state of New Jersey.

President of hockey operations and general manager Don Waddell and four of Johnny Gaudreau’s teammates spoke to reporters Wednesday at Nationwide Arena to share their feelings about the 31-year-old before a nighttime candlelight vigil that will include 13 minutes, 21 seconds of silent remembrance in honour of Johnny and Matthew’s jersey numbers.

“While there’s a huge hole in our lineup, there’s an even bigger one in our hearts,” Waddell said, acknowledging questions remain about how the team will move forward. “Our immediate focus is on supporting the Gaudreau family and supporting each other as we continue to grieve the loss of Johnny and Matthew.”

Waddell said the team will look to their leaders, including center and captain Boone Jenner.

Jenner said the Blue Jackets must persevere and support each other as a collective unit.

“As a team, we’re going to get through this together,” Jenner said. “We’re going to grieve, cry, be vulnerable and support each other every step of the way, but we will persevere because I know that’s what Johnny would’ve wanted.”

Defencemen Erik Gudbranson said that while he has struggled to find consistent connections with many teammates, Gaudreau’s unique way of driving him crazy brought them together.

“You will continue to inspire me to be just like you,” Gudbranson said.

Gaudreau turned down more money from the New Jersey Devils to sign a $68.25 million, seven-year contract with the Blue Jackets in 2022.

Defensemen Zach Werenski highlighted Gaudreau’s decision to move and embrace the city of Columbus.

“You brought so much joy and excitement to this city,” Werenski said. “I’ve never quite seen anything like it.”

The Gaudreau brothers were cycling on a road in Oldmans Township on Thursday night when a man driving an SUV in the same direction attempted to pass two other vehicles and struck them from behind at about 8 p.m., according to New Jersey State Police. They were pronounced dead at the scene.

Police said the driver, 43-year-old Sean M. Higgins, was suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and charged with two counts of death by auto, along with reckless driving, possession of an open container and consuming alcohol in a motor vehicle.

Gudbranson ended his statement with a message to people considering driving while under the influence of alcohol.

“If you think about driving after a few beers or a fun night, please, please, please do not,” Gudbranson said. “Find a way home.”

At the annual NHLPA rookie showcase outside Washington, union executive director Marty Walsh said the tragic situation was having wide-ranging effects around hockey.

“The deaths of Johnny and his brother are impacting a lot of players in the league as a whole and obviously is impacting their alma mater, Boston College, and the people in Boston,” Walsh said. “The tributes are beautiful to see. We’ve just got to continue to support the family the best we can.”

The Columbus Blue Jackets are currently facing a difficult and heartbreaking situation as they mourn the tragic deaths of Matiss and Elvis Merzlikins, the brothers of team forward Pierre-Luc Dubois. The two brothers were involved in a car accident in their native Latvia, which resulted in their untimely passing.

The news of the Gaudreau brothers’ deaths has sent shockwaves throughout the hockey community and has left the Blue Jackets organization reeling. The team has come together to support Dubois during this incredibly difficult time, offering their condolences and support as he navigates through this unimaginable loss.

In times of tragedy, it is important for individuals and teams to come together to seek understanding and healing. The Blue Jackets are no exception, as they work through their grief and try to make sense of this devastating loss. The team has been providing resources and support to Dubois and his family, as well as offering counseling and therapy services to players and staff who may be struggling with the news.

The Blue Jackets are also reaching out to the community for support, encouraging fans to come together in solidarity and show their support for Dubois and his family during this difficult time. The team is planning on holding a memorial service to honor the memory of the Gaudreau brothers and to provide a space for healing and reflection.

As the Blue Jackets continue to mourn the loss of the Gaudreau brothers, they are also focusing on coming together as a team and supporting each other through this tragedy. The organization is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for players and staff as they navigate through their grief and work towards healing.

While the loss of the Gaudreau brothers is a devastating blow to the Blue Jackets organization, it is also a reminder of the importance of coming together in times of tragedy. The team is determined to honor the memory of Matiss and Elvis Merzlikins by supporting each other and working towards healing as a united front.