The Blue Jackets unveil one method they'll pay tribute to Johnny Gaudreau during the current season.
Players will continue to grieve as Columbus leaves his locker room stall empty all season.
The Columbus Blue Jackets began training camp on Wednesday with the lingering pain of losing veteran forward Johnny Gaudreau, who was killed along with his younger brother, Matthew, by a suspected drunk driver in New Jersey three weeks ago.
The offseason was already being utilized by Columbus to reflect on a disappointing 2023-24 season and the changes in the front office and coaching staff.
As the new season begins, the organization is grappling with the loss of a key player while striving to start on the right foot.
Sean Monahan stated that he would miss Gaudreau for the rest of his life after signing with the Blue Jackets, according to the New York Post's report.
The Blue Jackets have decided to pay tribute to Gaudreau by leaving his locker room stall empty this season, with Monahan standing next to it.
He remarked that there is a significant burden on our shoulders at the moment.
Boone Jenner, as a team captain, leads the players, but also shares in their grief.
"I don't believe we have a definitive plan for this situation, and what has transpired. However, that's okay. We will learn and rely on one another as we navigate through it."
The Blue Jackets will support each other during this difficult period by relying on one another, particularly on the ice where everyone feels at ease.
The absence of Gaudreau on the ice has left a void, but defenseman Werenski stated that everyone is thrilled to be reunited with the team.
"Despite the challenges we've faced in the past few weeks, I believe we're looking forward to it. Let's continue playing hockey and enjoying what we do as a team."
Johnny's desire for us to play hockey is known by the new GM Don Waddell.
The Blue Jackets, under new coach Dean Evason, aim to enhance their 27-43-12 record from last season, which was the worst in the Eastern Conference.
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