Both groups lined up at their respective blue strains and watched a video tribute highlighting Gaudreau’s time in Calgary to a rendition of “Johnny B. Goode” by Flames anthem singer George Canyon.
The Gaudreau members of the family had been particular visitors on the sport.
Johnny’s father Guy, mom Jane, spouse Meredith and two kids, together with sisters Kristen and Katie, stepped out to center-ice for a ceremonial face-off. Blue Jackets ahead Sean Monahan, good friend of Gaudreau, and Backlund, lined up for the draw with each groups surrounding the household.
“It speaks to our management group, [Monahan] clearly being on prime of that,” Columbus coach Dean Evason stated. “Just conducting himself in an expert method and never shying away from displaying his emotion and utilizing it to maneuver us ahead. To see the household right here and the outpouring of affection and assist of this group, this metropolis and this nation, Canada, has been incredible.”
Monahan performed 9 seasons in Calgary and eight with Gaudreau. He signed a five-year contract with the Blue Jackets on July 1, anticipating to be reunited together with his former Flames teammate. The Blue Jackets ahead has been taking part in your entire season with a heavy coronary heart.
“That meant lots. I believe lots about him,” Backlund stated of Monahan. “For him to maneuver to Columbus to be reunited with Johnny, they had been so excited to get to play with one another. For [Monahan] to should undergo that on daily basis, it’s simply heartbreaking and I believe lots about him. It was nice to share that second with him and present the assist and love for the household.”
