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' new general manager was candid about the emotional toll that recent events have taken on him and the entire team.
An Unexpected Tragedy
On August 29, brothers Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau were struck by a suspected drunken driver while riding bicycles, a tragic accident that has left an indelible mark on the Blue Jackets community. In a poignant prelude to Friday night's prospect exhibition game between the Blue Jackets and Sabres, a moment of silence was held in their honor.
“We got to play hockey. We're not going to forget about Johnny and his family, the Gaudreau family,” Waddell solemnly commented. “Tragic. Senseless. But now we got to focus on trying to get our team ready to play hockey this year.”
Facing Grief Head-On
While most of the Blue Jackets players have returned to their facility, the emotional weight of the tragedy is palpable. Waddell, no stranger to personal and communal loss in the world of hockey, reflected on past experiences. In 2003, he endured a similar heartbreak when forward Dany Heatley lost control of his car, resulting in the death of teammate Dan Snyder.
More recently, in 2021, the Blue Jackets community mourned the untimely death of goalie Matiss Kivlenieks during a July Fourth fireworks accident. Yet, despite these past experiences, the pain of losing Johnny Gaudreau feels especially acute.
“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 noted.
Given the gravity of the situation, the NHL and NHL Players' Association have stepped in to provide much-needed support. This includes grief counseling, enhanced security at vigils, and specific measures addressing hockey-related issues, such as possible alterations to the league's salary cap rules to give Columbus some relief.
Preparing for the Season
With training camp set to begin on Thursday, exactly three weeks since the Gaudreaus were killed, the Blue Jackets are focusing on the logistics and emotions involved in starting a new season. There are two forward positions available, one due to a wrist injury that has sidelined Justin Danforth, adding another layer of complexity to their preparations.
In this challenging atmosphere, the newly arrived Waddell and coach Dean Evason are striving to steer the team through troubled waters. “Everybody knows that Johnny wants them to play hockey. And everybody's rallying around that,” Waddell assured, emphasizing the unity and determination of the team.
The Human Element
For forward prospect Gavin Brindley, the loss is deeply personal. “He was one of the biggest mentors for me at the world championships," Brindley shared. "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.”
Meanwhile, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman summed up the organization's current state: “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.” The collective grief is palpable and has made it challenging to fully shift focus to hockey.
Yet, there is a palpable sense of purpose threading through the Blue Jackets’ preparations. “The guys are in really good shape. We've done a lot of testing already and they're eager to get going,” Waddell observed, a testament to the team’s resolve.
As Columbus gears up for the new season, the organization seeks solace and motivation in the memory of Johnny Gaudreau. “We have a reason to play for. And we'll make the best of it,” Waddell stated, underscoring the spirit that will drive the Blue Jackets as they move forward.
The Blue Jackets are preparing to embark on a new season, not just with the usual hopes and ambitions but with a profound sense of purpose and community unity. As they navigate the aftermath of tragedy, their strength and resilience will be their guiding stars.