Blue Jackets Honor Johnny Gaudreau in Home Opener

The Columbus Blue Jackets commemorated Johnny Gaudreau, who tragically died in a cycling accident with his brother Matthew, during their first home game of the 2024-25 season. A video tribute was shown and fans observed 13 seconds of silence, reflecting Gaudreau's jersey number, before the Blue Jackets secured a 3-0 preseason victory over the St. Louis Blues. The brothers were killed on August 29 by a suspected drunk driver, leading to charges of death by auto against the driver. The team will honor them with helmet stickers and a commemorative patch featuring Johnny's number 13 throughout the season. Additionally, the planned home opener festivities for October 15 have been postponed to October 17 to further dedicate the night to their memory. The loss of Gaudreau leaves a significant void for the team as they navigate a challenging season ahead.