NHL Stadium Series Honors Johnny Gaudreau with Emotional Tributes

Columbus Blue Jackets and Detroit Red Wings celebrated the late star's legacy with heartfelt gestures during the outdoor game at Ohio Stadium.

Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew were killed in August 2024 by a suspected drunk driver, and this year's NHL Stadium Series served as a platform to honor their memory.
The Columbus Blue Jackets entered the stadium wearing Gaudreau's 'signature fit,' including Avalon Surf Shop hoodies, Amiri hats, and Ugg boots, while the Detroit Red Wings donned jerseys representing Gaudreau's career teams.
Johnny's widow, Meredith Gaudreau, along with their children and his mother, led the Blue Jackets onto the ice in a deeply emotional moment for fans and players alike.
The game saw over 90,000 attendees, making it the second-largest crowd in NHL history, and included a 5-3 victory for the Blue Jackets, further cementing the night as a special occasion.
Tributes to Johnny Gaudreau have been ongoing throughout the season, with his jersey displayed in the Blue Jackets' locker room and other commemorative gestures across the hockey community.