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 incident left a profound mark on the team, casting a shadow over the early days of this season.
A Season Marred by Tragedy
Most Blue Jackets players have returned to their facility. A moment of silence was held before the opening faceoff of Friday night's prospect exhibition game between the Blue Jackets and Sabres, a solemn tribute to the departed Gaudreaus. "We got to play hockey. We're not going to forget about Johnny and his family, the Gaudreau family," said Waddell.
The tragedy has not been the first for Waddell. In 2003, he experienced a similar loss when forward Dany Heatley lost control of his car, striking a wall and killing teammate Dan Snyder. More recently, in 2021, Blue Jackets goalie Matiss Kivlenieks died during a July Fourth fireworks accident. These past experiences have only deepened the sorrow lying over the organization.
League Support
The NHL and NHL Players' Association have stepped in to provide crucial support to the Blue Jackets. This assistance includes grief counseling, added security at vigils, and addressing hockey-related issues. There might even be altering of the league's salary cap rules to provide Columbus some relief.
Despite the tragedies, the team is moving forward. Training camp is set to open on Thursday, exactly three weeks since the Gaudreaus were killed. Waddell emphasized the importance of using this moment to unite, both on and off the ice. "Tragic. Senseless. But now we got to focus on trying to get our team ready to play hockey this year," he said.
Roster Changes and Leadership
There are two openings on the Blue Jackets' roster at forward, one of which is due to a wrist injury sidelining Justin Danforth. Waddell and head coach Dean Evason, both newcomers to Columbus this offseason, face the complex task of guiding the team through an emotionally challenging time.
Gavin Brindley, one of the team's promising players, was deeply affected by the loss. "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," he shared.
Preparing for a New Season
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman summarized the current state of the organization, recognizing the monumental task ahead. "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."
Yet, despite the heaviness, there's a sense of purpose driving the team. "Everybody knows that Johnny wants them to play hockey. And everybody's rallying around that," Waddell noted. The returning Blue Jackets are reportedly in excellent physical condition. "The guys are in really good shape. We've done a lot of testing already and they're eager to get going," Waddell added.
As they prepare to embark on a new season, the team carries a renewed sense of mission. "We have a reason to play for. And we'll make the best of it," Waddell concluded.
The season ahead will undoubtedly be marked by remembrance and perseverance. The Blue Jackets are not just playing for points in the standings but for the memory of Johnny Gaudreau and the unity of a team overcoming profound adversity.