The Calgary Flames honored former star Johnny Gaudreau, who was killed in a tragic accident, with an emotional tribute including a ceremonial puck drop and special jerseys during their 3-0 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets.

The tribute to Gaudreau, who was lost along with his brother Matthew to a suspected drunk driver while biking, saw family participation in the ceremonial face-off and Flames players donning jerseys featuring Gaudreau's name and number. This heartfelt recognition not only commemorated Gaudreau's contributions to the team but also underscored the profound impact of the loss on the hockey community, as players and fans alike came together to honor a beloved figure.

Before the game against the Columbus Blue Jackets, the Calgary Flames held a special pregame ceremony to honor Johnny Gaudreau. His family attended the event, which included a ceremonial puck drop, allowing family members to participate and share their grief with the crowd.

Players of the Flames wore warm-up jerseys emblazoned with Gaudreau's name and number, a tribute aimed at highlighting the significant role he played during his time with the team. Gaudreau spent the majority of his NHL career with the Flames before joining the Blue Jackets, making his contributions well remembered by the fans and the franchise.

The atmosphere in the arena was charged with emotion as the fans rallied together in support of the Gaudreau family. Gaudreau's presence was felt not only through the tributes but also in the spirit of the game itself. As a further nod to Johnny and Matthew, goaltender Dan Vladar wore a specially designed mask honoring the brothers, showcasing the collective sentiment among the players and fans.

With the crowd buzzing in appreciation of the tribute, the Flames delivered a solid performance against their opponents, winning the game 3-0. Following the victory, the Flames named Johnny Gaudreau the first star of the game, solidifying his legacy even in absence.

Meredith Gaudreau, Johnny's sister, also took part in expressing her ongoing love and remembrance for her brother. She revealed the unveiling of her first tattoo honoring Johnny, highlighting a personal way for the family to keep his memory alive. Upon returning to Calgary, Meredith noted the warmth and familiarity she felt, which speaks to the deep connections formed within the community.

The incident that took Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau left an indelible mark on the community. The driver involved has been charged with two counts of death by auto, leading to discussions about road safety and the need for greater awareness regarding drunk driving. This tragic event has fueled a broader conversation on initiatives aimed at preventing such incidents in the future.

In summary, the Calgary Flames’ tribute to Johnny Gaudreau before their game against the Blue Jackets exemplified the deep sense of loss felt within the hockey community. The ceremony brought together family, teammates, and fans in a shared expression of remembrance, underscoring the impact Gaudreau had on those who knew him and those who followed his career.