Blue Jackets Honor Gaudreau as Monahan Delivers Emotional Victory Speech
Photo credit: Us.Weekly
The Columbus Blue Jackets are in for a tough season, but Saturday night's 6-4 win over the Colorado Avalanche at Ball Arena marked their first victory of the year, and with it came the start of a new, heartfelt tradition honoring the late Johnny Gaudreau.
The Blue Jackets star and his brother Matthew ef='https://www.hockeyotb.com/nhl/news/johnny-gaudreau-and-brother-matthew-pass-away-in-biking-accident' class='lien_marqueur' target='_blank' rel='noopener'>lost their lives when they were struck by drunk driver Sean Higgins on August 29, while riding their bikes in Salem County, New Jersey.
After the game, the MVP was awarded a special hat with donkey ears-a tribute to Johnny as he used to refer to his teammates as «donkeys» when praising them. The team already has Gaudreau's jersey hanging in the locker room but this is another way to keep his memory alive.
Fittingly, the first set of donkey ears went to Johnny's best friend , Sean Monahan, who gave an emotional speech after receiving the honor.
Big win, boys. "Thanks for making it feel like home right away here. Great staff, great teammates. It's obviously emotional for me coming here, and it's been great, so thanks, guys. Huge win.
Monahan's voice trembled, and the emotion was clear, but his teammates gave him a roaring ovation, showing their support.
Even Johnny's wife Meredith took to social media to commentate the occasion and displayed a picture of them with the caption «Brothers»
Monahan didn't get the award out of pity, as he he recorded a goal and 2 assists including the game-sealing empty net tally . He became the first player in franchise history to record three points on his birthday.
Meanwhile the Calgary Flames, who drafted and reaped the benefits of Johnny hockey for nine seasons, held a touching tribute of their own before defeating the Philadelphia Flyers 6-3.
The Blue Jackets will have their home opener against the reigning Stanley Cup champions Florida Panthers on Tuesday at Nationwide Arena in what's sure to be an emotional night for everyone involved.
| POLL | ||
13 OCTOBRE | 32 ANSWERS Blue Jackets Honor Gaudreau as Monahan Delivers Emotional Victory Speech What do you think of the Blue Jackets' new "Donkey of the Game" tradition in honor of Johnny Gaudreau? | ||
| Love it | 24 | 75 % |
| Not a fan of the idea | 8 | 25 % |
| List of polls | ||
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