On the evening of August 29th, Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew tragically passed away. The news rocked the hockey world. Johnny Hockey as he was known, was a star who went on to make a positive impact on the lives of many. His love for the game was infectious and he shone brightly both on and off the ice. Johnny’s impact came into light immediately following his tragic passing, as condolences and grief poured in from around the globe. Gaudreau will have an impact on every hockey community he touched, but perhaps none more so than Calgary, where he spent his first nine professional seasons.
Fans in Calgary are paying tribute to Johnny Gaudreau outside the Saddledome. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/NiO2vb0plb
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) August 30, 2024
Johnny Gaudreau: Overcoming the Odds
Gaudreau was a fourth round pick in the 2011 NHL entry draft. His skill and illusiveness were undeniable, but many scouts had concerns about Johnny’s size. At just 5’9″, there was fear about whether he would be able to translate his game to the NHL, and worries about his durability. With the odds stacked against him, Gaudreau would head to Boston College, where he began to prove the doubters wrong.
Gaudreau a College Hockey Star
In his first season in the NCAA Gaudreau would record 44 points in 44 games and helped BC to the National Championship. By his third year, Gaudreau had blossomed into one of the best offensive players in the NCAA. That season he would be named the winner of the Hobey Baker Award as the top player in the NCAA. After proving he was more than capable of playing at that level, he set his sights on the NHL, and the Calgary Flames.
A Star Is Born with Johnny Gaudreau
Gaudreau would sign his entry-level contract with the Flames following his third NCAA season. Also, he arrived in Calgary with enthusiasm and would immediately ignite the Flames. In his first NHL game, he would record his first career goal. This goal brought hope and excitement to Flames fans and made Gaudreau an instant fan favourite.
For the next eight seasons, Johnny Hockey electrified fans in Calgary. His creativity, elusiveness, incredible hands, and great vision made him one of the most exciting players in the NHL. He had an ability like few who play the game to captivate an entire building full of fans every time the puck touched his stick. Fans in Calgary will forever remember the feeling when Johnny would pick up the puck and start pumping his legs gathering speed. His final season in Calgary was a truly special one. He would record a career-high 40-goal, 75-assist season. His 115 points tied him for the second most that season and he would finish fourth in Hart Trophy voting as league MVP. Gaudreau’s creativity and skill provided not only Flames fans but all hockey fans with countless highlights.
A Legacy Left Behind
During his time in Calgary, Gaudreau scored 609 points in 602 regular season games. He ranks fifth in franchise history for both points and assists. He was one of the most talented players to ever play for this franchise. His impact is more than just the point totals and results on the ice. Johnny Gaudreau inspired an entire generation of young hockey players. His exciting play with the puck inspired young players to approach the game with more creativity. He also gave hope to smaller players who would be doubted over their size. Gaudreau proved that if you had the desire, drive, and hockey sense, it doesn’t matter if you aren’t six feet tall, you can still be a star in the best league in the world.
The number 13 sweater will likely never be worn again in Calgary out of respect for the greatness of Johnny Gaudreau. His legacy and impact will never be forgotten by fans in this city. Every night the number 13 can be seen being worn by Flames fans at the Saddledome, and perhaps one day it will even hang from the rafters.
Main Photo: Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch-USA TODAY Network
