Hearing the familiar sounds of clacking sticks and pucks banging off the boards and glass was not enough to wash away the lingering residuals of grief for Don Waddell on Saturday.
The Blue Jackets' general manager was candid about the emotional toll that recent events have taken on him and the entire team. On August 29, Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew were struck by a suspected drunken driver while riding bicycles. The tragedy has cast a long shadow over the team's preparations for the upcoming season.
A Season Marked by Tragedy
The Blue Jackets are facing a unique and heartrending challenge as they prepare for the new season. The loss of the Gaudreau brothers has profoundly affected the entire organization. Most players have returned to the facility, but the atmosphere remains palpably somber.
On Friday night, the somber mood was palpable as a moment of silence was held before the opening faceoff of a prospect exhibition game against the Sabres, a small but significant nod to the tragedy that has united the team in grief. "We got to play hockey. We're not going to forget about Johnny and his family, the Gaudreau family," Waddell said. "Tragic. Senseless. But now we got to focus on trying to get our team ready to play hockey this year."
Painful Memories and Support
For Waddell, this tragedy unearths painful memories. In 2003, he experienced another moment of profound loss when forward Dany Heatley lost control of his car, resulting in the death of teammate Dan Snyder. Adding to the emotional burden, Blue Jackets goalie Matiss Kivlenieks died in a fireworks accident in 2021, marking yet another dark chapter in the team's history.
The NHL and NHL Players' Association have stepped in to provide crucial support to the Blue Jackets, including grief counseling, added security at vigils, and addressing hockey-related concerns. There is even talk of potentially altering the league’s salary cap rules to offer Columbus some relief.
Moving Forward Together
As training camp approaches, three weeks since the Gaudreaus' death, the team faces the dual challenge of emotional recovery and athletic preparation. There are two openings on the roster at forward, one due to a wrist injury sidelining Justin Danforth. Don Waddell and coach Dean Evason, both newcomers to Columbus this offseason, are tasked with navigating these turbulent waters.
"We all mourn and heal differently, but I think as a team being together like that is going to be critical for them to get moving forward," Waddell said, emphasizing the importance of unity in the face of adversity. "Everybody knows that Johnny wants them to play hockey. And everybody's rallying around that."
Player Resilience and Determination
The resilience of the players is evident. Gavin Brindley was deeply affected by the loss. "He was one of the biggest mentors for me at the world championships," Brindley shared. "I couldn't tell you how many times we hung out with Meredith, pictures on my phone. It's just so hard to look back and see that kind of stuff."
Despite the emotional toll, the team remains focused on the task ahead. "The guys are in really good shape. We've done a lot of testing already and they're eager to get going," Waddell noted. "We have a reason to play for. And we'll make the best of it."
A Glimpse Into the Future
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman summarized the current state of the organization, underscoring the collective shock that still grips the team. "The Blue Jackets, I don't think anybody's focused from an organizational standpoint, from a hockey standpoint as to what comes next, because I think everybody's still in shock," Bettman said. "I don't think anybody's focused right now other than on the grieving part, which is understandable."
As the Blue Jackets brace for the new season, the shadow of grief looms large. However, through shared pain and collective strength, they aim to honor Johnny Gaudreau and his family by embodying the resilience and unity he cherished. "We all mourn and heal differently," Waddell reiterated, bringing the team’s dedication into clear focus, "but I think as a team being together like that is going to be critical for them to get moving forward."