Calgary Flames gives a heartfelt tribute to their former player, Johnny Gaudreau, after the accident
Photo credit: The Hockey News
On Friday morning, the Calgary Flames and their fans paid a heartfelt tribute to former star Johnny Gaudreau at the Saddledome.
The arena's scoreboard displayed a sombre message reading :
"In loving memory" along with Gaudreau's name and the years "1993-2024."
The tribute followed the tragic news of Gaudreau's passing, alongside his younger brother Matthew, in a car accident in New Jersey on Thursday.
The driver involved in the accident has been charged with driving under the influence and two counts of death by auto. Gaudreau, 31, was a beloved figure in Calgary, and his loss deeply affected the hockey community.
Outside the Saddledome, fans left touching tributes, including Skittles and purple Gatorade-items that held special meaning for
Johnny Gaudreau. His father used to teach him to skate by spreading Skittles on the ice, and Gaudreau was known for his signature purple Gatorade goal celebration during his time with the Flames.
The Calgary Tower was also lit in Flames colours to honour both Johnny and Matthew, while similar tributes were seen in other hockey cities, including Columbus and Toronto. The outpouring of grief and respect across the hockey community highlights Johnny Gaudreau's profound impact on the sport and its fans.
Previously on Red Wings Insider
POLL |
AOUT 31 | 75 ANSWERS Calgary Flames gives a heartfelt tribute to their former player, Johnny Gaudreau, after the accident Do you think more arenas should honour with tributes as the Saddledome did for Johnny Gaudreau? |
Yes | 65 | 86.7 % |
No | 10 | 13.3 % |
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