Hearing the familiar sounds of clacking sticks and pucks banging off the boards and glass was not enough to wash away the lingering residuals of grief for Don Waddell on Saturday. The Blue Jackets' general manager was candid about the emotional toll that recent events have taken on him and the entire team.
On August 29, Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew were struck by a suspected drunken driver while riding bicycles. This tragic event left a profound impact on the Columbus Blue Jackets community. Most of the players have now returned to their facility, seeking solace and camaraderie as they prepare for a new season amidst unimaginable grief.
A moment of silence was held before the opening faceoff of Friday night's prospect exhibition game between the Blue Jackets and Sabres, reflecting the deep sorrow felt throughout the organization. This isn't the first time the team has faced such adversity. In 2003, Don Waddell experienced a tragedy when forward Dany Heatley lost control of his car, resulting in the death of his teammate Dan Snyder. More recently, in 2021, Blue Jackets goalie Matiss Kivlenieks died during a Fourth of July fireworks accident.
The NHL and NHL Players' Association have stepped in to provide support to the Blue Jackets, offering grief counseling, added security at vigils, and assistance with hockey-related issues. "We got to play hockey. We're not going to forget about Johnny and his family, the Gaudreau family," Waddell expressed. His determination to honor the Gaudreaus' legacy while pushing the team forward is evident.
There is even talk of altering the league's salary cap rules to provide Columbus some relief, underscoring the extraordinary nature of the situation. The team's training camp is set to open on Thursday, exactly three weeks since the Gaudreaus were killed, marking a critical juncture as the Blue Jackets try to turn the page.
Facing the Future
With two openings on the roster at forward—one due to a wrist injury sidelining Justin Danforth—there are spots to fill amid the emotional landscape. Don Waddell, along with coach Dean Evason, who are both newcomers to Columbus this offseason, face the dual challenge of integrating into the team while leading them through these trying times.
"Tragic. Senseless. But now we got to focus on trying to get our team ready to play hockey this year," Waddell remarked, emphasizing the importance of looking forward. The players, too, are trying to focus on the game, finding collective strength in their shared loss. "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.
Forward Gavin Brindley was deeply affected by the loss, reflecting on the cherished memories with Johnny Gaudreau. "He was one of the biggest mentors for me at the world championships. 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," Brindley lamented. His words resonate throughout the locker room, painting a picture of communal grief and individual pain.
A Reason to Play
The Blue Jackets are preparing to embark on a new season, fueled by a collective desire to honor Johnny Gaudreau's memory. "Everybody knows that Johnny wants them to play hockey. And everybody's rallying around that," Waddell noted. The team is reportedly in excellent physical condition, eager to channel their emotions on the ice. "The guys are in really good shape. We've done a lot of testing already and they're eager to get going," said Waddell.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman summarized the current state of the organization succinctly. "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, capturing the mixture of emotions swirling around the team.
As the Blue Jackets seek to move forward, they do so with a renewed sense of purpose. "We have a reason to play for. And we'll make the best of it," Waddell concluded. The road ahead is laden with challenges, but the shared grief and solidarity may serve as a powerful motivator for the Blue Jackets in the upcoming season.