COLUMBUS, Ohio — With the start of the 2024-2025 NHL season around the corner, the Blue Jackets have announced preliminary plans to honor Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau.

What You Need To Know

  • The Gaudreau brothers were cycling on a road in Oldmans Township on Aug. 29 when a man driving an SUV in the same direction attempted to pass two other vehicles and struck them from behind

  • All fans in attendance will receive a “13” patch. and players will be wearing the same patch on their jerseys

  • For additional details, please visit the Blue Jackets website

The Gaudreau brothers were cycling on a road in Oldmans Township on Aug. 29 when a man driving an SUV in the same direction attempted to pass two other vehicles and struck them from behind at about 8 p.m., according to New Jersey State Police. They were pronounced dead at the scene.

Fans across the hockey world showed their support for the Gaudreau’s. The Blue Jackets hosted a candlelight vigil outside Nationwide Arena.

Starting at the team's first preseason game at the Buffalo Sabres on Sept. 23, and through the rest of the season the Blue Jackets will wear a sticker on their helmets featuring Gaudreau and two doves between Johnny's number 13 and Matthew's Boston College number 21.

For the first preseason home game on Sept. 25, a moment of silence will be held. Proceeds from the 50/50 raffle will benefit John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation.

At the club's first regular season game on Thursday, Oct. 10 at the Minnesota Wild, and continuing through the season, Blue Jackets players will wear a patch featuring Johnny's number 13 on their jerseys.

On Opening Night, Oct. 15 at 7 p.m., the Blue Jackets will celebrate the Gaudreau brothers when they host the Florida Panthers. Fans attending that night will receive a number 13 patch like the ones the players are wearing.

For additional details, please visit the Blue Jackets website. 

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Related Stories