**Columbus Blue Jackets to Honor Late Gaudreau Brothers in Emotional Home Opener**

The Columbus Blue Jackets are set for a heartfelt evening as they honor the memory of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau in their home opener against the Florida Panthers on Tuesday at Nationwide Arena. The brothers tragically lost their lives two months ago in a traffic accident near their childhood home in Oldmans Township, N.J.

In preparation for the highly-anticipated match, practice sessions on Monday saw a touching moment with Guy Gaudreau, Johnny and Matthew’s father, who arrived early following an invitation from the team. "You can just see how much he wanted to be there," said Blue Jackets coach Dean Evason. "He really embodies that rink rat spirit Johnny had."

The idea to include Guy Gaudreau in these practices stemmed from former Blue Jackets coach John Tortorella, who had earlier invited him to skate with the Philadelphia Flyers during their training camp. On Monday, Guy joined the Blue Jackets' goaltending session, bringing an infectious energy that the players warmly embraced.

Tuesday's game won’t just commemorate the new season but will also serve as a poignant tribute to the Gaudreau brothers. The Panthers, last season’s Stanley Cup champions, will also play a significant role in this emotional match due to the close bond between Johnny Gaudreau and Florida's star player, Matthew Tkachuk from their time together in Calgary.

The Blue Jackets are anticipating a sold-out crowd, with over 18,000 fans expected to attend and many more tuning in nationwide and internationally. The team’s commitment to Johnny Gaudreau’s memory is evident; his No. 13 sweater permanently resides in his stall, both at home and on the road.

Center Sean Monahan, a new addition to the Blue Jackets who also played with Johnny in Calgary, spoke of the bond the team has built. “Guy’s on my mind, in my heart, all the time. He was a fantastic dad and coach. Having him here lifts our spirits,” Monahan said.

Monday's practice concluded with Guy initiating a notoriously tough end-of-practice drill known as the "Johnny skate." Players humorously took three grueling laps around the rink when Guy intentionally missed a shot on goal, reminiscent of Johnny’s challenging practice routines under his father's guidance.

Tonight, the Gaudreau family will be surrounded by the support of the Columbus fan base, testament to the community's enduring affection for Johnny and Matthew. The Blue Jackets hope to channel the profound emotions of the evening into a spirited performance on the ice, turning sorrow into strength in honor of the brothers’ legacy.