Meredith Gaudreau, the widow of the late NHL star Johnny Gaudreau, was met with an emotional standing ovation during the 2025 NHL Draft held at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on June 27. As she took the stage to announce the Columbus Blue Jackets’ first-round pick, the audience erupted in applause, honoring both her and her late husband.
The heartfelt moment was a reflection of the immense support the hockey community has shown to Meredith and her family since the tragic passing of Johnny and his brother Matthew Gaudreau. Both brothers lost their lives in August 2024 after being struck by a drunk driver while riding their bikes. They were just 31 and 29 years old, respectively.
In her speech, Meredith expressed her gratitude to the fans and teams who have rallied around her family during this difficult time. “I just wanted to take this time to thank every single team and every single fan base for your support for my family this past season,” she said. “It’s truly an honor to be here, and from the bottom of my heart, I thank you.” The audience not only applauded her but also chanted Johnny’s name, creating a poignant atmosphere filled with love and remembrance.
The tragic incident occurred just one day before the wedding of Meredith’s sister-in-law, Katie, which was postponed due to the loss. Both Johnny and Matthew were set to be groomsmen at the ceremony. The wedding has since been rescheduled for July 2025.
Meredith, who was pregnant at the time of Johnny’s death, welcomed their third child, a son named Carter, in April. The couple also had two other children, daughter Noa, aged 2, and son Johnny Jr., aged 15 months. Meanwhile, Matthew’s widow, Madeline, gave birth to their first child in December 2024, naming him Tripp Matthew in honor of his father.
Following the tragic accident, the driver responsible, Sean Higgins, faces multiple charges, including aggravated manslaughter and reckless vehicular homicide. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Meredith has been candid about her grief, sharing her feelings in a poignant letter published in the Players’ Tribune. “I was in shock. I was keeled over for days, sick to my stomach,” she wrote. “It’s completely indescribable. The only person who can relate to me is my own sister-in-law. I see her, and my heart breaks for her.”
The Columbus Blue Jackets issued a statement expressing their sorrow and support following the news of Johnny and Matthew’s deaths. “The Columbus Blue Jackets are shocked and devastated by this unimaginable tragedy,” the franchise stated. “Johnny was not only a great hockey player but, more significantly, a loving father, son, brother, and friend. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to his wife, Meredith, his children, Noa and Johnny, his parents, their family, and friends on the sudden death of Johnny and Matthew.”
The outpouring of love and support for Meredith Gaudreau at the NHL Draft serves as a reminder of the strong bonds within the hockey community and the enduring legacy of Johnny Gaudreau. As she navigates this challenging chapter of her life, Meredith continues to honor her husband’s memory and the love they shared.