Before the game, honorary Team USA captain Mike Eruzione paid tribute to Gaudreau by wearing a Team USA jersey bearing his name. The gesture set the stage for a deeply moving atmosphere, as fans throughout TD Garden in Boston erupted into chants of “Johnny Hockey.” This tribute was a touching moment for Gaudreau’s family, particularly his wife, Meredith Gaudreau, who later took to social media to express her emotions.
“So emotional hearing this all around me,” Meredith shared. “Kept thinking how I can’t wait to show these videos to our kids one day.”
The chants were a testament to Gaudreau’s impact on hockey fans, not just in the NHL but also during his collegiate career at Boston College, where he first rose to prominence.
Why Did Fans Chant ‘Johnny Hockey’ at the 4 Nations Face-Off?
The nickname “Johnny Hockey” became synonymous with Gaudreau throughout his career, from his days as a standout player in college to his time in the NHL. The 4 Nations Face-Off final, held in Boston, provided the perfect setting for longtime fans to honor his legacy. Boston College fans who had cheered him on in his early career saw this as an opportunity to pay their respects for the first time since his tragic passing.
The Tragic Passing of Johnny Gaudreau
On August 29, 2024, Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew, were struck and killed by a drunk driver while bicycling in southern New Jersey. The two had returned home for their sister’s wedding, and the accident occurred the night before the celebration. Law enforcement confirmed their deaths the following morning.
Details of the Accident
The tragic accident took place when the Gaudreau brothers were hit by a vehicle driven by Sean M. Higgins, who was later found to have a blood-alcohol level of .087—exceeding the legal limit of .08. Higgins was arrested at the scene and has been charged with first-degree aggravated manslaughter, two counts of second-degree vehicular homicide, second-degree leaving the scene of a fatal accident, and fourth-degree tampering with physical evidence.
In January 2025, Higgins pleaded not guilty and rejected a plea deal that would have resulted in a 35-year prison sentence.
Johnny Gaudreau’s Hockey Legacy
Gaudreau was known for his exceptional skill and agility on the ice. His career began at Boston College, where he quickly gained national attention for his offensive prowess. His collegiate success led him to the NHL, where he played for the Calgary Flames and later the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Career Highlights
- Spent nine seasons with the Calgary Flames, amassing 210 goals and 609 points.
- Signed a long-term contract with the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2023.
- Played a total of 763 NHL games, scoring 243 goals and 500 assists, finishing his career with 743 points.
Gaudreau’s International Career with Team USA
Johnny Gaudreau was a proud representative of Team USA in international tournaments. He played in multiple championships, including:
- 2013 World Junior Championship
- 2014, 2017, 2018, and 2019 World Men’s Championships
Throughout these tournaments, Gaudreau appeared in 39 games, scoring 17 goals and recording 25 assists for a total of 42 points.
A Lasting Legacy
The outpouring of love and support for Gaudreau at the 4 Nations Face-Off highlights the deep connection he had with hockey fans, teammates, and his community. The “Johnny Hockey” chants were more than just words; they were a tribute to a player who brought joy to the sport and left a lasting impact on those who watched him play.
While his career was tragically cut short, his legacy lives on through the memories he created on the ice and the inspiration he provided to aspiring hockey players worldwide. His family, friends, and fans will continue to honor his contributions to the game and keep his spirit alive in the world of hockey.
