Johnny Gaudreau's uncle, Jim, released a statement from the family following the tragic passing of Johnny and his brother, Matthew, in New Jersey Thursday evening.
Calling the brothers "two truly amazing humans," Jim acknowledged the "messages of love and support" and thanked fans and the hockey community for their "continued thoughts and prayers."
The complete statement is below:
Jim Gaudreau
Last night we lost two husbands, two fathers, two sons, two brothers, two sons and brothers in law, two nephews, two cousins, two family members, two teammates, two friends but truly two amazing humans.We want to let everyone know we are receiving your messages of love and support and we appreciate your continued thoughts and prayers. We ask for your continued respect and privacy during this very difficult period of grief.
From all our families and the bottom of our hearts (the Gaudreau, Morris, Korbitz, Venello, and Joyce Families)
Earlier Friday, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman released a statement on behalf of the league:
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 often told the story of how his father taught him to skate as a child in his home state of New Jersey and he carried that same youthful passion throughout his 11 NHL seasons.
A skilled playmaker, Gaudreau participated in the NHL All-Star Game seven times where he was always a fan favorite, particularly while showcasing his talents in the various skills competitions for which he was so well suited.
Boston College, where both brothers played their college hockey, also released a statement:
The Boston College Athletics Department and its men's hockey program are devastated and mourn the tragic loss of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau on Thursday night.
Johnny, 31, and Matthew, 29, were shining stars on and off the ice for the Eagles.
Johnny played three seasons for Boston College from 2011-14 and was a member of BC's 2012 National Championship team as a freshman. He led the nation in scoring as a junior and was the recipient of the 2014 Hobey Baker Award, presented annually to the top player in men's college hockey. Nicknamed "Johnny Hockey," he went on to play 11 years in the National Hockey League with the Calgary Flames and Columbus Blue Jackets.
Matthew and his brother played together on the ice at Kelley Rink during the 2013-14 season. A four-year standout for the Eagles from 2013-17, he played in 120 games for Boston College and was a two-time Beanpot champion in 2014 and 2016. After Boston College, Matthew went on to play professionally for five seasons and served as the head boys hockey coach at Gloucester Catholic H.S. in New Jersey for the past two seasons.
We extend our deepest sympathies to the entire Gaudreau family and mourn with them during this time of tragedy.
Their coach at Boston College, Jerry York, released a statement as well:
I am devastated and heartbroken over the news of the death of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau. They were not only great hockey players but two outstanding young men. They represented their families and Boston College with the utmost class. Please keep the Gaudreau family in your prayers during this tragic and unspeakable time.
