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, a tragedy that has profoundly impacted the Blue Jackets organization.
Emotional Toll on the Blue Jackets
"We got to play hockey. We're not going to forget about Johnny and his family, the Gaudreau family," Waddell said. His words echoed the somber mood that has enveloped the team as they navigate this difficult period. Despite the emotional burden, Waddell emphasized the importance of focusing on the upcoming season. "Tragic. Senseless. But now we got to focus on trying to get our team ready to play hockey this year."
The Blue Jackets held a moment of silence before the opening faceoff of Friday night's prospect exhibition game against the Buffalo Sabres. It was a small yet significant gesture to honor the Gaudreau family and offer a communal space for grief.
Support from the NHL and NHLPA
The NHL and NHL Players' Association have stepped in to provide support to the Blue Jackets. This includes grief counseling, added security at vigils, and addressing hockey-related issues. There might even be alterations to the league's salary cap rules to provide Columbus some relief, underlining the far-reaching impact of this tragic event.
Waddell, who joined the Blue Jackets this offseason along with coach Dean Evason, is no stranger to tragedy. In 2003, he experienced a similar loss when forward Dany Heatley lost control of his car, resulting in the death of teammate Dan Snyder. This previous experience has perhaps given Waddell a unique perspective on how to navigate the current situation.
Resilience and Readiness
Despite the sorrow, there is a sense of determination within the team. Most Blue Jackets players have returned to their facility, gearing up for the new season. "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 stated. "Everybody knows that Johnny wants them to play hockey. And everybody's rallying around that."
Training camp is set to open on Thursday, exactly three weeks since the Gaudreaus were killed. There are currently two openings on the Blue Jackets' roster at forward, one of which is due to a wrist injury sidelining Justin Danforth. This presents an opportunity for other players to step up and fill the gaps. "The guys are in really good shape. We've done a lot of testing already and they're eager to get going," noted Waddell.
Personal Impact
Forward Gavin Brindley, profoundly affected by the loss, shared his feelings, "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."
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman summarized the current state of the organization: "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." His sentiments underscore the enormity of the emotional challenge facing the team. "I don't think anybody's focused right now other than on the grieving part, which is understandable," Bettman added.
A New Season Ahead
As the Blue Jackets prepare to embark on a new season, they do so with a heavy heart. The players and staff are rallying around the memory of Johnny Gaudreau, determined to honor him by putting their best foot forward on the ice. "We have a reason to play for. And we'll make the best of it," declared Waddell, encapsulating the resilient spirit that will guide the team through this challenging time.