Standing just 5-foot-9, Johnny Gaudreau was a force on the ice, feared by opponents for his skill and impact. Gaudreau, who tragically died in a cycling accident on Thursday, left an unforgettable legacy in hockey, both for his performance and character.
Over his NHL career, Gaudreau accumulated 743 points (243 goals, 500 assists) in 763 games after being drafted in the fourth round of the 2011 NHL Draft by the Calgary Flames. His list of achievements is extensive, including the Hobey Baker Award, seven NHL All-Star appearances, and the Lady Byng Trophy for sportsmanship.
“Johnny will be fondly remembered in Calgary, where he played his first nine seasons and became one of the league’s brightest stars, accumulating the fifth-highest points total in franchise history,” said NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman in a statement. “His loss will also be deeply felt in Columbus, where he chose to raise his family and became a respected leader as the team built toward playoff contention.”
Gaudreau began his hockey journey at Gloucester Catholic High School in New Jersey, scoring 51 goals and 57 assists in his final two years and leading the school to a state championship as a junior. He’s arguably the greatest player to come out of New Jersey, topping all New Jersey-born players in career points.
After high school, Gaudreau played for the Dubuque Fighting Saints in the USHL, helping them win the Clark Cup. He earned a spot on the USHL All-Rookie Team and was named Rookie of the Year.
Following his time in Dubuque, Gaudreau was drafted by the Flames but chose to attend Boston College with his brother Matthew. He thrived at the collegiate level, winning the Hobey Baker Award in 2014 as the nation’s best player. His defining moment came in the 2012 national championship when he led Boston College to a 4-1 victory over Ferris State, scoring a pivotal goal late in the third period.
Two years later, Gaudreau made his NHL debut in the Flames’ final regular-season game and immediately made an impact, scoring a tip-in goal assisted by Joe Colborne and Chris Breen, showcasing his elite skill.
Throughout his 11-year NHL career, Gaudreau delivered countless memorable moments, one of which occurred during the 2022 Stanley Cup Playoffs. With the Flames trailing the Stars 2-1 in their first-round series, Gaudreau scored the game-winning goal in Game 4 to tie the series. In a thrilling Game 7, Gaudreau scored a side-angle overtime goal to win the series, giving Calgary their first series victory since 2015.
Gaudreau consistently excelled, surpassing 70 points in five seasons. In 2021-22, he enjoyed a career-best season, tying for second in league points (115) with Jonathan Huberdeau of the Panthers. This marked his last season with Calgary before he joined the Columbus Blue Jackets in free agency.
During his final two seasons with the Blue Jackets, Gaudreau accumulated 134 points (33 goals, 101 assists). In the 2023-24 season, he recorded 12 goals and 48 assists over 81 games, marking the end of his stellar career.
Gaudreau’s ability to score from any spot on the ice, combined with his remarkable patience and accuracy, set him apart. His exceptional speed allowed him to consistently outpace defenders.
As one of the most talented American-born players in recent history, Gaudreau leaves behind a remarkable legacy. He will be remembered not just for his scoring prowess but for his humble and generous personality off the ice.
