Dallas Stars v Chicago Blackhawks - Source: Getty — Chris Tanev grateful on signing with hometown Maple Leafs, references Johnny Gaudreau's tragic passing

"Want to be close to your family": Chris Tanev grateful on signing with hometown Maple Leafs, references Johnny Gaudreau's tragic passing

Modified Sep 23, 2024 14:26 GMT

Chris Tanev left the Dallas Stars in free agency and signed with his hometown team, the Toronto Maple Leafs. Being close to home is often important to some athletes, and Tanev took the chance to be closer to his family for the next stage of his hockey career.

In the wake of the Johnny Gaudreau tragedy, that decision makes even more sense. For Tanev, it was already important to be close to loved ones. Now, following the accident that claimed the Gaudreau brothers' lives, the hockey star is even more grateful. Tanev said, via NHL:

“I mean, that’s the first thing that comes to mind. You want to be close to your family. Little things, like them waiting for you after games, that makes all the difference. When something like the Gaudreau tragedy happens, you don’t really realize that until something so tragic actually does happen.”

Gaudreau and his brother were struck by a drunk driver in late August, killing them both. The news sent shockwaves through the entire hockey community, and it naturally affected Chris Tanev as well. He attended the funeral and has spoken about the loss since it happened.

Chris Tanev opens up on Johnny Gaudreau's death

Johnny Gaudreau was a beloved NHL player by fans and players alike. Whether they played with or against him, most hockey players had a good opinion of the former Columbus Blue Jackets star.

Chris Tanev opened up on the tragic death of Johnny Gaudreau (Getty)

That includes Chris Tanev, who said he was out of words to describe how sorry he felt for the situation, via NHL:

“A nightmare. I mean, as you’re standing there, the first things you think about is that you want to hug your son, hug your wife, tell your parents you love them. There are no words that can describe how sorry you are for Meredith and Johnny’s parents and their entire family.”

After the funeral, Tanev gave a long hug to his 20-month-old son, Bobby. He always felt that family was very important, but when he saw what happens when a family loses someone, it reinforced his decision to move back home to play for the Maple Leafs and be near his loved ones.