In a heartwarming tribute to the late Johnny Gaudreau, Team USA has continued to honor the NHL star throughout the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament. The emotional gesture of hanging Johnny’s iconic No. 13 jersey in the Team USA locker room before their championship game against Canada speaks volumes about his legacy, which still resonates deeply with his teammates, family, and fans.
A Powerful Tribute to Johnny Gaudreau
Ahead of their crucial showdown with Canada on Friday, Team USA made sure Johnny Gaudreau’s presence was felt. His No. 13 jersey, draped in the locker room, served as a reminder of the star forward who tragically passed away in August of last year. The team has been displaying Gaudreau’s jersey throughout the tournament, with the emotional tribute playing out during practices and games, underscoring the significant impact Johnny had on the team and the sport.
Meredith Gaudreau, Johnny’s wife, took to Instagram to express her feelings about this tribute. Sharing a post of the No. 13 jersey hanging in the Team USA locker room, she added a single word in the caption: “Forever ”. The simplicity and weight of this sentiment encapsulated Meredith’s deep love for her late husband and the eternal bond they shared.
Brady Tkachuk Fills Johnny’s Skates After Scoring Big
In a remarkable moment of symbolism, Team USA’s Brady Tkachuk was given Johnny Gaudreau’s No. 13 jersey after his standout performance in the team’s 6-1 victory over Finland. Scoring two goals in the match, Tkachuk’s achievement was a fitting tribute to Gaudreau, showcasing how his spirit continues to inspire Team USA.
The team’s support for Johnny’s memory doesn’t end with the jersey, as each player knows they’re not just playing for the victory, but for a friend, a mentor, and a legend who will forever be part of USA Hockey’s history.
Meredith Gaudreau Pens Heartfelt Message
Meredith has remained an unwavering pillar of strength throughout this challenging time. On Wednesday, she shared another poignant Instagram story that featured a screenshot of Johnny’s No. 13 jersey hanging alongside a USA Hockey logo. The image, originally posted by the NHLPA, displayed a nameplate honoring Johnny’s legacy, further emphasizing the respect and admiration the hockey community holds for him.
In the caption, Meredith wrote a heartfelt tribute, reflecting on Johnny’s remarkable impact and the pride she feels for his accomplishments. “These little captions “, she wrote. “U deserve it all Reggie. So proud of you. Ur impact amazes me every single day, but it does not surprise me. I always knew how perfect you were. Luckiest girl in the world ” These words underscore the deep connection Meredith shared with Johnny, a bond that transcends time.
Her heartfelt posts serve as a reminder that Johnny’s influence extended far beyond the rink. He was not only a gifted athlete but a cherished husband, friend, and teammate.
A Father’s Pride: Guy Gaudreau Joins Team USA for a Special Moment
Johnny’s family has been deeply involved in these tributes as well. Before the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament, Johnny’s father, Guy Gaudreau, was invited to join Team USA during a practice at the Bell Centre in Montreal. Guy, initially planning to leave the day before, was urged to stay and participate in the team photo — a gesture that left him feeling both honored and emotional.
“I called my wife, I said, ‘This is crazy. They wanted me in the team picture,’” Guy shared with NHL.com. *“I was just honored that my son was that good that they respected him enough to say, put his dad in the picture.” Guy’s presence in the team photo symbolized the enduring respect the players have for Johnny, and it was a moment that resonated deeply with the Gaudreau family.
Continuing Johnny Gaudreau’s Legacy in USA Hockey
The tributes to Johnny Gaudreau are far more than ceremonial gestures; they are a testament to the profound impact he made during his career. His talent and leadership qualities left an indelible mark on the sport, and these tributes, from his jersey being displayed in the locker room to his father joining the team photo, reflect the high regard in which he was held.
Guy Gaudreau, too, expressed his gratitude, sharing how proud he was that Johnny’s legacy lives on in such a meaningful way. “I was honored that my son was that good that they respected him enough,” Guy said. “It meant a lot to our family, especially my wife Jane and our daughters.”
Johnny’s legacy, especially within Team USA, continues to inspire players and fans alike. As Team USA competes for the championship, Johnny Gaudreau’s spirit remains an integral part of the squad’s journey, serving as a reminder that greatness is never forgotten.
The display of Johnny Gaudreau’s No. 13 jersey by Team USA is not just a tribute — it’s a celebration of a life that touched so many. Whether it’s Meredith’s emotional Instagram posts, Brady Tkachuk’s incredible performance, or Guy Gaudreau’s emotional experience at practice, every moment adds to the beautiful tapestry of Johnny’s legacy in the world of hockey.
As Team USA takes to the ice for the 4 Nations Face-Off championship, Johnny’s memory will undoubtedly be with them, inspiring them to play not only for the gold but for the legacy of a true hockey legend.
I am a writer with a passion for technology and gaming. I write about a variety of subjects, including Esports, Games, Shows, and Sports. I create engaging and informative content for Hiptoro.