On August 30, Blake Coleman received devastating news about his friend Johnny Gaudreau, who tragically died in a bicycle accident alongside his brother Matthew. The brothers were struck by a drunk driver while in New Jersey for a family wedding.
Johnny, a beloved figure in the NHL, played nine seasons with the Calgary Flames before joining the Columbus Blue Jackets. His death has left a profound impact on the hockey community, prompting tributes and memorials in both Calgary and Columbus.
Players across the NHL will honor the Gaudreau brothers by wearing helmet stickers featuring their numbers, with several teams conducting special tributes during games. The loss resonates deeply, especially within the Flames organization, which has faced significant heartbreak recently.