Zach Werenski pays tribute to 'best teammate and friend' Johnny Gaudreau after his tragic passing in an accident

By Ankit Kumar

Modified Sep 01, 2024 17:16 GMT

Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski honored his late teammate and friend Johnny Gaudreau after his tragic death on Thursday. Werenski shared on Instagram a picture of them in Blue Jackets jerseys and captioned it:

"The best teammate and friend. You will be so missed, brother. Rest in Peace, John."

Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew died in a biking accident on Thursday in New Jersey. They were struck by a car driven by someone suspected of being under the influence. The driver was charged with two counts of death by auto.

Gaudreau was a talented NHL player, drafted by the Calgary Flames in 2011. He played for Boston College and won the Hobey Baker Award in 2014. Gaudreau scored 743 points in 763 NHL games and made seven All-Star appearances.

Kevin Hayes and Wayne Gretzky's message for Johnny Gaudreau

Others in the hockey community, including Kevin Hayes and Wayne Gretzky, shared their grief and memories of Johnny Gaudreau.

Hayes shared memories of their friendship and admired Gaudreau’s character. He expressed deep sadness and extended support to the Gaudreau family.

"14 years ago I was asked to walk Johnny and Matty around Boston College campus not knowing the friendships I was going to gain." Hayes wrote, "I am so thankful the Gaudreau’s entered my life. Any person who met them truly was happier. I can’t fathom the fact that I cannot call John again. He was the most humble, grounded, funniest, stubborn superstar I have ever seen."

"The world will not be the same without the Gaudreau brothers. Till we meet again Our thoughts and prayers are with Meridith, Madeline, Guy, Jane, Kristen, Katie, Noa, Johnny, Tripp and the entire Gaudreau family"

Gretzky also offered condolences, remembering Johnny and Matthew as significant figures on and off the ice. He sent his love and prayers to the family.

“Janet, my family, and I are heartbroken over this tragedy. We send our love and prayers to the Gaudreau family. Johnny and Matthew were loved and made a big impact on and off the ice. They will always be remembered and missed,” he wrote.

Johnny Gaudreau's legacy as a player and person will be remembered by the entire NHL community.