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Sean Monahan points to the sky for Johnny Gaudreau after scoring (video)

Originally posted on Hockey Unplugged | By Axel Williams | Last updated 10/15/24

Tonight was an emotional one as the Columbus Blue Jackets played their home opener against the Florida Panthers in their first home match since the passing of Johnny Gaudreau.

Everyone knew that this game was going to be a special one and that it would also be a difficult one for both teams to play. Numerous tributes were planned for Gaudreau and fans were interested to see just how the Blue Jackets would handle all of this.

Well, it turned out be a really amazing night even if the Blue Jackets do not come away with the win. They ended up raising a banner in Gaudreau's honor. Moreover, they ended up taking 13 seasons out of the top of the game so that the Blue Jackets could play without a left-winger. It was all very cool and was an example of how Columbus loved Gaudreau.

Meanwhile, Gaudreau's best friend Sean Monahan scored a goal, and he immediately pointed to heaven, thanking Johnny for the assist.

These were magical moments that definitely gave fans some goosebumps. We can only imagine what the atmosphere must have been like in that building. It's an example of the hockey world coming together for their own.

Our heart continues to go out to the Gaudreau family during this incredibly difficult time. We cannot begin to imagine what they must be going through right now. We hope they are able to find solace in the fact that the entire hockey world is behind them right now.

This article first appeared on Hockey Unplugged and was syndicated with permission.

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