Wed Dec 04 01:50:00 UTC 2024: ## Gaudreau Family Returns to Calgary for Emotional Tribute to Johnny and Matthew
**Calgary, AB** – The Calgary Flames will honour the memory of former player Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew tonight in a pre-game ceremony, marking the first time the Gaudreau family has returned to Calgary since the brothers’ tragic deaths in a suspected drunk-driving accident in August.
The tribute, taking place before the Flames’ game against the Columbus Blue Jackets, will include a ceremonial puck drop and a video montage celebrating Johnny Gaudreau’s nine seasons with the team. Players from both teams will wear special warm-up jerseys in their honour.
Johnny’s father, Guy Gaudreau, joined the Flames for practice on Monday, acting as an honorary coach. He shared coaching tips with players, including captain Mikael Backlund, creating a poignant and heartwarming moment. Backlund described the day as emotional but ultimately positive, highlighting the Flames’ desire to support the Gaudreau family.
Other family members participated in the unveiling of the first of six hockey stick benches, created from sticks left at a memorial outside the Saddledome, that will be placed in Calgary community arenas. Each bench will feature engraved plaques commemorating Johnny and Matthew.
Former Flames player Sean Monahan, now with the Blue Jackets, spoke movingly about Gaudreau’s character and impact on the city and the league. He described Gaudreau as “a humble superstar” who had a positive influence on many lives.
The emotional pre-game ceremony promises to be a powerful tribute to the Gaudreau brothers, offering a moment of remembrance and celebration of their lives for the Calgary community and hockey fans. The game begins at 7 p.m.
First Piper 