NHL star Johnny Gaudreau dead at 31

Photo credit: Pink Puck TV

Columbus Blue Jackets player Johnny Gaudreau has died at the age of 31. The former Calgary Flames player, known as Johnny Hockey, was the subject of social media speculation following unconfirmed reports of a vehicle-bicycle accident involving him and his brother Matthew and a drunk driver. The news was confirmed in a release from NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman.

While Johnny’s infectious spirit for the game and show-stopping skills on the ice earned him the nickname ‘Johnny Hockey,’ he was more than just a dazzling hockey player; he was a doting father and beloved husband, son, brother and teammate who endeared himself to every person fortunate enough to have crossed his path.

Gaudreau, born in Salem County, New Jersey, was a college hockey stand-out at Boston College, winning the Hobey Baker award for top NCAA player in 2014, before being drafted by the Flames 104th overall in 2011. He spent 9 seasons in Calgary before going to Columbus for the start of the 2022-23 season. In 763 games, he registered 743 points and won the Lady Byng trophy as the league’s most gentlemanly player in 2017.

Columbus Blue Jackets statement on the passing of Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew. pic.twitter.com/V2aFykgKIs

— Columbus Blue Jackets (@BlueJacketsNHL) August 30, 2024

Matthew Gaudreau, 29, also played for Boston College, as well as pro teams in the AHL, ECHL, and a league in Sweden. Most recently, he was the coach of a high school hockey team in their home state, New Jersey.