On Thursday, Johnny Gaudreau, a forward for the Columbus Blue Jackets, and his brother Matthew lost their lives in what the team described as an “unimaginable tragedy.” They were reportedly hit by a suspected drunk driver while cycling, according to authorities in New Jersey.

Johnny, who was 31, and Matthew, aged 29, were in Philadelphia for their sister’s wedding, set for Friday. The driver responsible for the accident is facing two counts of death by auto.

Throughout his NHL career spanning 11 seasons, Johnny Gaudreau played 763 regular-season games, netting 243 goals and providing 500 assists while representing the Calgary Flames and the Blue Jackets. Gaudreau was selected as an All-Star in 2023, finishing his last season with an impressive 12 goals and 48 assists across 81 games.

He leaves behind his wife, Meredith, their children, Noa and Johnny, as well as his parents, Guy and Jane, and sisters, Kristen and Katie.

Here’s a closer look at Johnny Gaudreau’s journey through life and his professional career.

Johnny Gaudreau’s College Journey

Johnny Gaudreau was born on August 13, 1993, in Salem, New Jersey. He began his hockey journey at Gloucester Catholic High School before moving on to the Dubuque Fighting Saints in the United States Hockey League in 2010.

Later, he attended Boston College, where he made a significant impact by assisting the Eagles in clinching the national championship during his freshman year in 2012.

In his junior year, Gaudreau, affectionately known as “Johnny Hockey,” lit up the NCAA with 36 goals and 44 assists, earning the prestigious Hobey Baker Award for the best college player and winning the Hockey East Player of the Year award on two occasions.

Additionally, while in college, Gaudreau played a key role in securing a gold medal for the United States at the U20 World Junior Ice Hockey Championships by scoring seven goals.

Johnny Gaudreau’s NHL Journey

Gaudreau was selected by the Calgary Flames in the fourth round of the 2011 NHL Draft, but he made his NHL debut in the 2013-14 season after completing his college career. He was a contender for the Calder Trophy, awarded to the Rookie of the Year, during the 2014-15 season and earned a spot on the All-Rookie Team.

Spending nine seasons with the Flames, he received six All-Star nominations. His standout season occurred in 2021-22, where he tallied 40 goals and achieved a career-high of 115 points.

After hitting free agency, Gaudreau signed a seven-year contract worth $68.25 million with the Blue Jackets, ending his first season in Columbus with 21 goals and 53 assists.

Life Outside of Hockey

In 2017, Gaudreau was honored with the Lady Byng Trophy, awarded to the NHL’s most “gentlemanly” player.

In February, Gaudreau led a team initiative to raise awareness about men’s mental health. The Blue Jackets pledged $1,000 for each point scored through the “Laine Gives Back” program in response to former player Patrik Laine facing online harassment related to his mental health struggles.