The U.S. men's ice hockey team at the Milan Cortina Olympics is dedicating its efforts to the memory of Johnny Gaudreau, with his number 13 jersey displayed in the locker room. Gaudreau, a former NHL star, died in a tragic accident in August 2024 alongside his brother Matthew. Teammates and family express that his spirit remains with the team as they compete.
At the Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena during the Milan Cortina Olympics, the U.S. men's ice hockey team has placed a jersey bearing the number 13 in their locker room to honor Johnny Gaudreau, the 31-year-old NHL player who previously suited up for the Columbus Blue Jackets and Calgary Flames.
Gaudreau and his brother Matthew, 29, were fatally struck by an alleged drunk driver while bicycling in New Jersey in August 2024, the night before their sister's wedding. The incident prompted widespread tributes from the hockey community, including teammates, coaches, and fans across the NHL.
Gaudreau represented Team USA in six international events, including five International Ice Hockey Federation Men’s World Championships, where he recorded 43 points in 40 games—the most in U.S. men's IIHF history. He was viewed as a strong candidate for the Olympic roster.
Ahead of the tournament, the Gaudreau family shared a statement on social media, conveying their "heartache knowing how much this moment meant to John." They noted, "In that final summer, John was training harder than ever, with his dad, pushing himself to be in the best shape of his life. He was determined to earn his spot on that Olympic roster." The family added, "While it breaks our hearts that John won’t be there to live out that dream, we know he will be so very present with Team USA and all of his close friends competing throughout these games." They concluded with support: "Go Team USA. We know John and Matty are watching with pride."
Teammates echoed these sentiments. Alternate captain Matthew Tkachuk said, "We know he’s here with us, cheering us on and rooting for us." He added, "He’s got his own area in the locker room and it’s always nice to see that as a reminder."
Zach Werenski, who played with Gaudreau on the Columbus Blue Jackets from 2022 to 2024 and alongside him at the 2024 men’s World Championship, remarked, "I know how much Johnny wanted to be here for the Four Nations and the Olympics." He continued, "It’s super special to see his jersey hanging, and we’re playing for him and trying to make him proud."
Head coach Mike Sullivan, also the New York Rangers' coach, stated, "We did it in the Four Nations tournament a year ago, and we’re carrying that jersey with us here in Milan." He emphasized, "The fact that our team is celebrating him throughout this tournament just speaks volumes to the character and the person that Johnny was. I know how much he meant to a lot of the guys in that room."
