Remembering Johnny Gaudreau: A Legacy in Hockey
On August 29, the hockey community faced an unimaginable loss with the passing of Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew. Johnny, a celebrated 11-year veteran of the NHL, was known for his remarkable skill and dedication to the game. He wore the number 13 proudly during his time with the Calgary Flames and the Columbus Blue Jackets, leaving an indelible mark on both franchises and the sport as a whole.
A Player Who Inspired Generations
Johnny Gaudreau was more than just a player; he was a beacon of hope and inspiration for a younger generation of American-born hockey players. His journey from a small-town kid to an NHL star resonated with many aspiring athletes. As the league gears up for the 2024-25 season, the absence of Gaudreau’s talent and charisma will be deeply felt. His ability to connect with fans and players alike made him a beloved figure in the hockey world.
Honoring a Legend
In a heartfelt tribute to Johnny Gaudreau, the Columbus Blue Jackets have announced plans to honor him throughout the upcoming season. The team will wear helmet stickers and patches in his memory, ensuring that his legacy continues to shine brightly. Additionally, they have chosen to leave his locker untouched, a poignant reminder of the impact he had on his teammates and the organization.
A Number with Significance
The number 13, often viewed as unlucky in various cultures, has been worn by many successful athletes across different sports. In the NHL, it now carries a special significance as a tribute to Johnny Gaudreau. Cole Caufield of the Montreal Canadiens has made headlines by requesting to change his number from 22 to 13 in honor of his favorite player. This gesture highlights the profound influence Gaudreau had on his peers and the respect he garnered throughout the league.
New Faces, Same Number
In Pittsburgh, newly acquired Kevin Hayes will don the number 13, becoming only the eighth skater in franchise history to wear that number, following Vinnie Hinostroza in 2024. This move not only pays homage to Gaudreau but also signifies the ongoing legacy of the number within the NHL. The Pittsburgh Penguins, a team with a rich history, will now carry a piece of Gaudreau’s spirit as they take to the ice.
Current NHL Players Wearing No. 13
As the hockey world reflects on Gaudreau’s legacy, it’s worth noting the other players who currently wear the number 13. Here’s a list of some notable NHL players sporting this number:
- Anaheim Ducks – Robby Fabbri
- Boston Bruins – Charlie Coyle
- Edmonton Oilers – Mattias Janmark
- Florida Panthers – Sam Reinhart
- Minnesota Wild – Yakov Trenin
- Montreal Canadiens – Cole Caufield
- New Jersey Devils – Nico Hischier
- New York Islanders – Mathew Barzal
- New York Rangers – Alexis Lafreniere
- Pittsburgh Penguins – Kevin Hayes
- Seattle Kraken – Brandon Tanev
- St. Louis Blues – Alexey Toropchenko
- Tampa Bay Lightning – Cam Atkinson
- Winnipeg Jets – Gabriel Vilardi
The Legacy of No. 13
While often considered an unlucky number, No. 13 has been associated with success in various sports. Icons like Alex Rodriguez in MLB, Wilt Chamberlain in the NBA, and Kurt Warner in the NFL have all made their mark while wearing this number. Now, in the NHL, No. 13 will forever be linked to Johnny Gaudreau, a talented star whose life was cut short too soon.
As the hockey community continues to mourn the loss of Johnny Gaudreau, his legacy will undoubtedly live on through the players who wear his number and the memories he created on and off the ice. The impact he had on the game and those around him will be felt for years to come.