Johnny Gaudreau played 11 seasons in the NHL, primarily with the Flames and Blue Jackets. He joined Columbus on a seven-year deal starting in the 2022-23 season. A 2023 All-Star, he recorded 12 goals and 48 assists in 81 games last season.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman expressed the league’s sorrow over the deaths of Johnny and his brother Matthew. “Johnny’s vibrant passion for hockey and his exceptional skills on the ice earned him the nickname ‘Johnny Hockey,'” Bettman stated. “He was more than a talented player; he was a devoted father and beloved family member who touched the lives of many.”
Matthew Gaudreau also played hockey at Boston College and in various minor league teams.
Drafted by the Flames in 2011, Johnny Gaudreau gained fame at Boston College, where he helped the Eagles secure a national championship in 2012 and earned the “Johnny Hockey” nickname. He won two consecutive Hockey East Player of the Year awards and claimed the Hobey Baker Award in 2014 as the nation’s top college player.
Former Boston College coach Jerry York remarked, “Johnny was an incredible player, and Matty was solid as well. But what truly stood out was their family. It’s heartbreaking for these two young men who had so much ahead of them.”
Johnny made an impact right away with the Flames, scoring in his first game of the 2013-14 season. He quickly became a league standout, tallying 24 goals and 64 points in his rookie year, helping the Flames reach the playoffs. Over his career, he was a six-time All-Star and achieved a career-high of 40 goals and 115 points in the 2021-22 season.
The Flames released a heartfelt statement mourning the loss: “We are devastated by the passing of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau. Johnny will always be part of the Flames family, cherished by all in Calgary.”
Standing at 5-foot-9 and 180 pounds, Gaudreau excelled in an era that favored speed and finesse, scoring over 20 goals in six seasons and accumulating 642 points in 644 games, including playoffs.
His NHL journey began during a successful year with the Dubuque Fighting Saints in the USHL, where he scored 36 goals and helped the team win the Clark Cup. Gaudreau also represented the U.S. in the 2013 under-20 World Junior Championships, contributing to a gold medal win with seven goals and nine points.
The hockey community has expressed profound grief over his passing. Former teammate Blake Coleman stated he was “completely gutted,” while retired goalie Eddie Lack shared, “Johnny was one of my favorite teammates. Always happy and spreading positivity. Rest in peace.”
This tragedy follows other recent losses for the Blue Jackets, including the passing of goaltender Matiss Kivlenieks in 2021.
ESPN’s Ryan S. Clark and The Associated Press contributed to this report.