Bittersweet debut at home for the Blue Jackets.

 COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — Tuesday marked a poignant evening at Nationwide Arena as the Columbus Blue Jackets kicked off their new season, infused with an emotional weight like never before.

Johnny Gaudreau, a standout player for the Blue Jackets, and his brother Matthew tragically lost their lives on August 29 while cycling near their family home in New Jersey. They were struck by a suspected drunk driver just a day before their sister's wedding.

In light of this tragedy, questions loom about the upcoming court date for the driver accused in the Gaudreau brothers’ death. Johnny Gaudreau, known for his high scoring in the NHL, was set to begin his third season with the Blue Jackets.

“It’s bittersweet,” expressed fan Emily Capps. “You’re excited for opening night, but there’s always that memory looming.”

Johnny Gaudreau was a devoted family man who chose to raise his family in Columbus, embracing the community.

“There’s a palpable sadness in the air, but it’s heartwarming to see the fans and the memorials they’ve created,” said fellow fan Logan Capps.

Unfortunately, the Blue Jackets fell short against the defending Stanley Cup champions, the Florida Panthers, losing 4-3.

A memorial dedicated to the Gaudreau brothers, created by the team, is adorned with tributes gathered from vigils and memorial services honoring their legacy. More than 20 family members attended the home opener, including Johnny’s wife Meredith and their children. Before the game, they visited the memorial, where their daughter proudly wore a jersey with "Daddy" emblazoned across the back.

Johnny Gaudreau earned the nickname "Johnny Hockey" through his genuine love for the sport, a passion shared with his brother and their father.

For the fans, Johnny's arrival in Columbus symbolized hope. “We had struggled for so long, and getting a player like Johnny who wanted to be here meant everything,” said fan Allen Hawk. “I remember jumping around in disbelief, thinking, ‘There’s no way we got Johnny.’”

In his first two seasons, Johnny quickly became a fan favorite, but the news of his passing left a heavy heart among supporters. “It’s just such a sinking feeling,” Hawk reflected. “This is bigger than hockey; it’s about the man.”

Throughout the arena, the number 13 was prominently displayed—on jerseys, signs, and patches handed to fans—all in tribute to "Johnny Hockey."

“They’ll come together as a team to honor Johnny and give their best,” Emily Capps added.

Meredith Gaudreau and her daughter spent time at the memorial prior to the game, reflecting on the legacy of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau. Fans also gathered to pay their respects at the memorial set up for the brothers before the game.

In a touching tribute, Blue Jackets players wore helmet stickers and patches to honor Johnny and Matthew during the first period. This gesture extended across the NHL, with all teams displaying similar tributes.

To further commemorate the Gaudreau brothers, the Blue Line Store launched a special collection, featuring t-shirts and pucks with a 13/21 logo representing their jersey numbers. The proceeds from these items will benefit the John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation.

In the wake of the brothers' tragic passing, the entire Blue Jackets organization united to find the right way to honor their memory while processing their own grief. Many behind-the-scenes staff played a crucial role in organizing memorials for the home opener and beyond.