In a heartfelt moment ahead of the Columbus Blue Jackets’ home opener, Guy Gaudreau, the father of the late Johnny Gaudreau, participated in the team’s practice as a coach Monday.
Guest Coach Guy Gaudreau joins Dean Evasons staff on the ice for practice ahead of tomorrow nights game pic.twitter.com/MadxtrfGPa
— Columbus Blue Jackets (@BlueJacketsNHL) October 14, 2024
Johnny, who tragically passed this summer after being hit by a drunk driver while cycling near his home in New Jersey, remains deeply ingrained in the hearts of the Blue Jackets community. The organization is set to honor Johnny and his brother Matthew before Tuesday night's home opener against the Florida Panthers.
Its just heart warming. Guy Gaudreau on the ice with the #CBJ this morning. pic.twitter.com/EP0KmPWNhS
— Dave Maetzold (@DMaetzMedia) October 14, 2024
For the players, coaches, and staff, having Guy on the ice was a powerful experience. While the practice itself was routine prep ahead of a game, it was clear that this session meant more than just hockey.
Guy even had the opportunity to shoot for the "Johnny Skate" at the end of practice.
Dean Evason said today the practice-ending drill #CBJ does where a player shoots a full-ice shot at an open net is called the Johnny Skate. "If he makes it in the net, it's one lap for the players. If he misses, it's three laps. One-three."
— Jeff Svoboda (@JacketsInsider) October 14, 2024
Guy Gaudreau got to shoot today.
As the Blue Jackets gear up for the season opener tomorrow night, the presence of Guy Gaudreau was a reminder that while Johnny may no longer be with us physically, his influence and memory will forever be a part of the Blue Jackets family.
Best of all, he'll be on the ice again Tuesday for the Blue Jackets' morning skate:
Dean Evason on Guy Gaudreau skating with #CBJ today: "I said to him, 'Anytime you want to come out, you're more than welcome.' And he said, 'Well, are you having morning skate tomorrow?' I said yeah, so he's coming out tomorrow as well. He just wants to be around."
— Jeff Svoboda (@JacketsInsider) October 14, 2024
