Hearing the clacking sticks and the pucks banging off the boards and glass offered little solace for Don Waddell on Saturday. The Blue Jackets' general manager candidly shared the emotional burden recent events have cast over him and the entire team.
On August 29, a devastating incident shook the Blue Jackets’ community. Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew were struck by a suspected drunken driver while riding their bicycles. In the weeks that followed, the team watched Johnny Gaudreau endure his greatest off-ice challenge, and for many, the grieving process is far from over.
Emotional Toll
Most Blue Jackets players have returned to their facility, but the atmosphere is charged with emotion. On Friday night, before the prospect exhibition game against the Sabres, a moment of silence was held, a poignant reminder of the community's loss.
Waddell, reflecting on the tragic accident, drew a painful parallel to 2003 when Dany Heatley lost control of his car, resulting in the death of teammate Dan Snyder. He also recalled the 2021 accident when Blue Jackets goalie Matiss Kivlenieks died during a July Fourth fireworks mishap. These memories weigh heavily on him.
"We got to play hockey. We're not going to forget about Johnny and his family, the Gaudreau family," Waddell stated. "Tragic. Senseless. But now we got to focus on trying to get our team ready to play hockey this year." His words encapsulate the conflicting emotions of remembrance and the necessity of moving forward.
Support and Preparations
In the face of this tragedy, the NHL and NHL Players' Association have extended their support. This aid encompasses grief counseling, enhanced security measures at vigils, and addressing hockey-related concerns. There is even consideration of altering the league's salary cap rules to provide Columbus with some relief.
Training camp is set to commence on Thursday, marking exactly three weeks since the accident. The Blue Jackets are left to navigate their grief while preparing for the season. Waddell’s resolve comes through when he says, "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."
Roster Changes and Leadership
Two openings on the Blue Jackets' roster at forward are reminders of the alterations the team faces. One of these vacancies results from a wrist injury that has sidelined Justin Danforth. Compounding the challenge is the fact that both Waddell and coach Dean Evason are new to Columbus this offseason, adding a layer of complexity to their leadership roles during this difficult time.
Despite the heavy hearts, there are glimmers of hope. "The guys are in really good shape. We've done a lot of testing already and they're eager to get going," Waddell noted. The drive to honor Gaudreau’s memory seems to unify the players. "We have a reason to play for. And we'll make the best of it," Waddell added.
A Community Rallying
One individual profoundly affected is Gavin Brindley. Reflecting on his relationship with Gaudreau, Brindley shared, "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."
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman gave voice to the broader sentiment within the organization. "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," he remarked. "I don't think anybody's focused right now other than on the grieving part, which is understandable."
As the Blue Jackets prepare to start a new season, there is a palpable sense of resolve amidst the grief. The unity within the team, coupled with the support from the NHL community, highlights the resilience of those striving to honor their lost ones through the game they love. With heavy hearts and high spirits, the Blue Jackets embark on their season, carrying the memories of Johnny Gaudreau and his brother with them every step of the way.