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, a tragic incident struck the hockey world when Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew were hit by a suspected drunken driver while riding bicycles. The loss has left an indelible mark on the Columbus Blue Jackets, whose players have since returned to their facility, trying to grapple with this profound sorrow.
A Season Shadowed by Grief
A moment of silence was observed before the opening faceoff of Friday night's prospect exhibition game between the Blue Jackets and Sabres, highlighting the somber mood within the organization. It's far from the first tragedy to strike the team. In 2021, Blue Jackets goalie Matiss Kivlenieks died in a July Fourth fireworks accident. Years earlier, in 2003, Don Waddell himself experienced a devastating loss when forward Dany Heatley lost control of his car, killing teammate Dan Snyder.
"We got to play hockey. We're not going to forget about Johnny and his family, the Gaudreau family," said Waddell, encapsulating the delicate balance the team must maintain between mourning and moving forward. "Tragic. Senseless. But now we got to focus on trying to get our team ready to play hockey this year."
Support from the NHL
The NHL and NHL Players' Association have extended their support to the Blue Jackets during this trying time. This assistance includes grief counseling, additional security at vigils, and addressing essential hockey-related issues. There might even be an adjustment to the league's salary cap rules to provide some relief for Columbus, illustrating the league's sensitivity to the situation.
Training camp is set to open on Thursday, exactly three weeks since the Gaudreaus were killed. There are two openings on the Blue Jackets' roster at forward, one of which is due to a wrist injury sidelining Justin Danforth.
Leading Through Grief
Gavin Brindley, among others, has been deeply affected by the loss, particularly because of Johnny's mentorship during the world championships. "He was one of the biggest mentors for me at the world championships. 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," Brindley shared, his voice thick with emotion.
Despite the overwhelming sorrow, Waddell maintains a sense of purpose, noting the team’s physical readiness to tackle the season. "The guys are in really good shape. We've done a lot of testing already and they're eager to get going," he remarked, underscoring the professionalism and resilience within the squad.
New Beginnings Amidst Loss
This season also marks new beginnings for Waddell and coach Dean Evason, who are newcomers to Columbus this offseason. Their fresh perspectives may offer a beacon of hope as the organization seeks to overcome its recent heartache.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman summarized the current state of the organization succinctly. "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 stated. "I don't think anybody's focused right now other than on the grieving part, which is understandable."
Amid the prevailing grief, the Blue Jackets are preparing to embark on a new season. "Everybody knows that Johnny wants them to play hockey. And everybody’s rallying around that," said Waddell, his words resonating with a mix of sorrow and determination. "We have a reason to play for. And we'll make the best of it."
As the season approaches, the Columbus Blue Jackets face a formidable task: to honor their fallen friends through their commitment to the game they all love. The echoes of past losses are a somber reminder of the fragility of life, yet they also serve as a rallying cry for a team united by grief and galvanized by purpose.