The Columbus Blue Jackets entered training camp Wednesday still heartbroken over the death of veteran forward Johnny Gaudreau, who was killed along with his brother, Matthew Gaudreau, in a car struck by a suspected drunk driver in New Jersey three weeks ago.
Columbus has already used the offseason to reflect on a lackluster 2023-24 season and revamp its front office and coaching staff.
While the new regime is looking to get the new season off to a strong start, the entire squad is dealing with the grief and pain of losing one of their key players.
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Columbus Blue Jackets left winger Johnny Gaudreau plays the puck against the Montreal Canadiens during the second period at the Bell Centre. (David Kirouac/USA Today Sports)
“I'm going to miss him for the rest of my life,” Sean Monahan told reporters Wednesday. New York Post. Monahan signed with the Blue Jackets to play alongside Gaudreau again after eight seasons with the Calgary Flames.
But the Blue Jackets already have one way to honor their former teammate: The team is leaving Gaudreau's private locker room compartment open this season as a tribute to him, with Monahan sitting right next to him.
Johnny Gaudreau's wife pays heartfelt tribute to NHL player and his brother killed by drunk driver
“There's a huge burden on our shoulders right now,” he added.
As team captain, Boone Jenner is a leader among the players, but he is grieving along with the rest of the team.
“I don't think it's fair to say we know exactly what to do. I don't think there's a formula for this situation or what's happened,” he said. “And that's OK. I think we're going to learn from each other and rely on each other going forward.”
Columbus Blue Jackets player Johnny Gaudreau reacts after scoring the tying goal in the third period of a game against the Washington Capitals at Nationwide Arena on January 31, 2023 in Columbus, Ohio. (Ben Jackson/NHLI via Getty Images)
Relying on each other, especially on the ice where everyone feels comfortable working together, is one way the Blue Jackets are helping each other get through these tough times.
There will be a hole without Gaudreau on the ice, but defenseman Zach Werenski said he's happy to have everyone back together.
“It's been a tough few weeks, but we're looking forward to it, just playing hockey again and continuing to do what we love together.”
“The players know Johnny wants us to play hockey,” new GM Don Waddell added.
Johnny Gaudreau of the Columbus Blue Jackets during warmups before a game against the Carolina Hurricanes at PNC Arena on April 7, 2024 in Raleigh, North Carolina (Jaylin Nash/Getty Images)
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The Blue Jackets, under new head coach Dean Evason, are hoping to improve on last season's record of 27 wins, 43 losses and 12 ties, which was the worst in the Eastern Conference.
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