Blue Jackets Grapple with Tragedy as New Season Approaches
Blue Jackets Grapple with Tragedy as New Season Approaches
The unmistakable sounds of hockey—clacking sticks, pucks humming off the boards and glass—were not enough to stave off the deep sense of grief enveloping Blue Jackets general manager Don Waddell on Saturday. The emotional toll of recent events has left a palpable impact on him and the entire team.
On August 29, tragedy struck when Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew were struck by a suspected drunken driver while riding their bicycles. This heart-wrenching incident has shaken the Blue Jackets community to its core, casting a long shadow over the team's preparations for the upcoming season.
A sad familiarity hovers over Waddell, who previously faced tragedy in 2003 when forward Dany Heatley lost control of his car, resulting in the death of teammate Dan Snyder. This time, the pain is compounded by the recent memories of 2021 when Blue Jackets goalie Matiss Kivlenieks lost his life in a July Fourth fireworks accident.
Paying Tribute
In an emotional moment of silence before the opening faceoff of a prospect exhibition game against the Sabres, the Blue Jackets paid homage to the Gaudreau family. For Waddell, the emotional terrain has been difficult to navigate, but he recognizes the importance of focusing on the season ahead.
"We got to play hockey. We're not going to forget about Johnny and his family, the Gaudreau family," Waddell said. "Tragic. Senseless. But now we got to focus on trying to get our team ready to play hockey this year."
The NHL and the NHL Players' Association have intervened to support the Blue Jackets, offering grief counseling, additional security at vigils, and addressing pressing hockey-related issues. Conversations about potentially altering the league's salary cap rules to provide financial relief to Columbus are also underway.
Resilience in Unity
Most Blue Jackets players have returned to their facility, banding together in unity and determination. Gavin Brindley, one of the many affected deeply by the loss, reflected on his time with Johnny Gaudreau.
"He was one of the biggest mentors for me at the world championships," Brindley said. "I couldn't tell you how many times we hung out with Meredith, pictures on my phone. It's just so hard to look back and see that kind of stuff."
Training camp is set to open on Thursday, exactly three weeks since the Gaudreaus were killed. Two openings have emerged on the Blue Jackets' roster at forward—one due to Justin Danforth being sidelined with a wrist injury. The task of reshuffling and preparing the team falls on the shoulders of Waddell and coach Dean Evason, both newcomers to Columbus this offseason.
"We all mourn and heal differently, but I think as a team being together like that is going to be critical for them to get moving forward," Waddell added, emphasizing the importance of unity.
Moving Forward
Despite the shadow of grief, the collective spirit within the team remains unbroken.
"Everybody knows that Johnny wants them to play hockey. And everybody's rallying around that," Waddell stated. "The guys are in really good shape. We've done a lot of testing already and they're eager to get going."
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman also acknowledged the ongoing emotional turmoil within the organization, underscoring the primary focus on grieving and healing.
"The Blue Jackets, I don't think anybody's focused from an organizational standpoint, from a hockey standpoint as to what comes next, because I think everybody's still in shock," Bettman said. "I don't think anybody's focused right now other than on the grieving part, which is understandable."
As the Blue Jackets inch closer to a new season, there is a renewed sense of purpose driving them forward, a commitment to honor those they have lost.
"We have a reason to play for. And we'll make the best of it," Waddell concluded.
