FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Matthew Tkachuk, a player for the Florida Panthers, recently spoke about the passing of his close friend and former teammate, Johnny Gaudreau. Gaudreau and his brother tragically lost their lives in a bicycle accident in New Jersey on Aug. 29, caused by a suspected drunken driver. Tkachuk fondly remembered Gaudreau as “the most offensively talented player I’ve ever seen” and expressed the deep loss he feels.
Tkachuk and Gaudreau were teammates for six seasons in Calgary before Tkachuk was traded to Florida in 2022. The pair shared a special bond both on and off the ice. Gaudreau’s passing has deeply impacted Tkachuk, who described the situation as “terrible” and highlighted the incredible memories he cherishes of his time with Gaudreau.
Tributes continue to pour in for Gaudreau and his brother, with Tkachuk emphasizing the need to keep Johnny’s memory alive through stories and laughter. The Panthers are set to face the Columbus Blue Jackets, Gaudreau’s new team, in a highly emotional game on Oct. 15, marking the Blue Jackets’ first home game since Gaudreau’s untimely death.
Tkachuk highlighted the support for Gaudreau’s family, including his wife, children, and parents, during this difficult time. He expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and shared his commitment to keeping Gaudreau’s legacy alive. Tkachuk, along with many others in the hockey community, attended the Gaudreau brothers’ services and continues to reflect on the impact of their loss.
As Tkachuk and the Panthers gear up for the new season, the memory of Johnny Gaudreau remains a significant presence, with Tkachuk determined to honor his friend both on and off the ice.
