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Sewell Today
By the People, for the People
Team USA Honors Late Hockey Star Johnny Gaudreau at 2026 Olympics
Gaudreau's family attends semi-final game as team pays tribute to fallen player
Published on Feb. 21, 2026
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The U.S. men's hockey team has been honoring the late Johnny Gaudreau, a former NHL player who was killed in a car accident in 2024, during their run to the gold medal game at the 2026 Olympics. The team has hung Gaudreau's jersey in their locker room before every game, and his family has attended the semi-final game wearing his U.S. gear. Gaudreau, who played 10 seasons in the NHL, was a fan favorite known as "Johnny Hockey" and was expected to be on the 2026 Olympic roster before his untimely death.
Why it matters
Gaudreau's tragic passing at the age of 31 deeply impacted the hockey community, and his memory continues to serve as inspiration for the U.S. team as they compete for Olympic gold. The team's tribute to Gaudreau highlights the lasting impact he had on the sport and the players he competed against.
The details
Gaudreau and his brother Matthew were killed in a car accident in August 2024 while biking in New Jersey. They were struck by a drunk driver, who was later charged with vehicular homicide and other related offenses. Though Gaudreau's blood alcohol level was above the legal limit, prosecutors noted that New Jersey does not have laws prohibiting bicycling while intoxicated, so it could not be used against him. The Gaudreau family has attended the U.S. team's semi-final game, wearing Johnny's jerseys to support the team he likely would have played for.
- Gaudreau and his brother were killed in a car accident on August 29, 2024.
- The U.S. men's hockey team is competing in the gold medal game at the 2026 Olympics on February 22nd, which is Johnny Gaudreau Jr.'s birthday.
The players
Johnny Gaudreau
A former NHL player who spent 10 seasons in the league with the Calgary Flames and Columbus Blue Jackets. He was known as "Johnny Hockey" and was expected to make the 2026 U.S. Olympic team before his untimely death in 2024.
Matthew Gaudreau
Johnny Gaudreau's younger brother, who was also killed in the 2024 car accident.
Guy Gaudreau
The father of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, who was invited to be a guest coach for the Philadelphia Flyers after his sons' deaths.
Meredith Gaudreau
Johnny Gaudreau's wife, who was pregnant with their third child when he passed away.
Auston Matthews
A member of the U.S. men's hockey team competing at the 2026 Olympics.
What they’re saying
“Johnny had an impact on a lot of guys in this locker room. It's special to see his family here. I know that those two are watching down on us, here with us in spirit.”
— Auston Matthews (NHLMuse)
What’s next
The U.S. men's hockey team will take on Canada in the gold medal game at the 2026 Olympics on February 22nd, which is Johnny Gaudreau Jr.'s birthday.
The takeaway
Gaudreau's tragic death at the height of his hockey career has left a lasting impact on the sport, and his memory continues to inspire the U.S. team as they compete for Olympic gold. The team's tribute to Gaudreau shows the power of sports to bring people together and honor those who have left us too soon.
