During a home opener of epic proportions for the renowned Columbus Blue Jackets, hockey player Sean Monahan spoke open-heartedly about paying tribute to his late friend, Johnny Gaudreau. Monahan felt strongly about being there to support Gaudreau’s grieving wife, Meredith, and their children amidst the tribute to Gaudreau’s storied career. The game started with a poignant 13-second pause as an homage to Gaudreau’s jersey number. Monahan took the lead in the opening faceoff, leaving Gaudreau’s position noticeably vacant.

Monahan found the salute to the life of his friend incredibly touching. Its challenging, to say the least, but it was a deeply special moment that Ill carry in my heart for the rest of my life, he opened up. For Monahan and all who knew and respected Gaudreau, that opening 13-second pause will remain indelibly etched in their hearts.

Monahan admitted during the game, “I felt as though Johnny was looking down on us today.” He was also confident about scoring a goal in his late friend’s honor, a sentiment evoking a sense of warmth and emotional depth. These words radiated from his heart, showing his respect and love for his former teammate.

The tribute to Gaudreau’s life and career didn’t end there. During the second period of the game, Monahan accomplished his goal  literally. He scored his first home goal of the season while pointing to Gaudreau’s banner proudly displayed in the stands. Despite the Blue Jackets’ loss to the formidable Florida Panthers, the emotional weight of the tribute transcended the final score.

Indeed, Monahan’s words echoed with sadness and respect: I genuinely felt Johnny’s presence today. He acknowledged his feelings and triumph, I had this strong intuition that I was going to score. Luckily, I managed to fulfill it. Of course, losing isn’t great, but I could feel Johns spirit beside us today.

The team’s coach, Dean Evason, also shared his insights on the homage to Gaudreau. His heart ached when he noticed that Gaudreau’s usual position was lackluster without his formidable presence. As soon as it occurred, it struck a chord with everyone, he shared, his voice heavy with emotion.

Evason lauded his team’s effort, expressing his admiration for how they managed their emotions while facing off against the reigning Stanley Cup champions. He stated, The team dealt exceptionally well with it. It was incredibly tough seeing them struggle with loss.

The heartfelt tribute served to honor the memory of the Gaudreau brothers, who tragically succumbed to their lives in a bicycle accident prior to their sister Katie’s wedding.

Two days before the tribute, Meredith Gaudreau uploaded a heartwarming photo of Sean Monahan cradling baby Johnny. Monahan was seen wearing a hoodie with the name Gaudreau printed on it. Uncle Muncy showing his love for baby Johnny, Meredith captioned the picture, bringing a wave of emotion to all who saw it.

In the wake of the game, Monahan received the first donkey cap, a tradition used to commemorate the late Johnny Gaudreau after the Blue Jackets 6-4 victory over the Colorado Avalanche. The cap came adorned with a 13 patch in military-style honoring Johnny’s jersey number. Monahan expressed his feelings about the emotional experience, noting, its emotional, but its also comforting. Weve achieved our first win, and the love from the organization, my teammates, and undoubtedly from John is very much felt.”

Monahan’s words and actions were a poignant display of the emotional significance of saluting Johnny’s life and legacy amidst a well-played game of hockey.