Team USA Men's Hockey Pays Tribute to Late Teammate Johnny Gaudreau at the Winter Olympics
The Team USA men's ice hockey team is honoring their late teammate, Johnny Gaudreau, in a special way at the Winter Olympics in Milan. The squad, which has won its first three games, is hanging Gaudreau's jersey in the locker room as a tribute to the late NHL star. Gaudreau, along with his brother, Matthew, was tragically killed in a 2024 crash caused by an alleged drunk driver. This incident shocked the hockey world.
The brothers were riding their bikes ahead of their sister's wedding when they were struck and killed by the driver, who has been charged with aggravated manslaughter and reckless vehicular homicide. On Sunday, NBC's coverage of Team USA's game against Germany featured a segment showcasing Gaudreau's nameplate and jersey in the locker room.
Gaudreau had an impressive career with Team USA, playing in 40 games and holding the record for the most points scored by a U.S. men's player at the World Championships. His teammates, including Zach Werenski, believe he would have made the Winter Olympics team. Werenski considers Gaudreau one of the greatest American-born hockey players and wants to make the late star and his brother proud at the Games.
Team USA head coach Mike Sullivan praised the team's tribute to Gaudreau, a seven-time NHL all-star and winner of the Lady Byng Memorial Trophy for sportsmanship. Gaudreau's family expressed their emotions in a statement, stating that representing the United States at the Winter Olympics was one of Gaudreau's greatest dreams. He was training rigorously in the summer leading up to the crash, aiming to be in the best shape of his life.
Despite the bittersweet nature of the Olympics for Gaudreau's family, they find solace in knowing that he will be remembered by his teammates, friends, and fans. The statement concluded with a powerful message: 'Go Team USA. We know John and Matty are watching with pride.'
