Johnny Gaudreau’s unexpected passing in August 2024 really shook the USA Hockey community. The 31-year-old NHL star, and his brother Matthew were sadly killed by a suspected drunk driver while they were cycling in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, right before their sister’s wedding. Gaudreau has made quite an impact on USA Hockey. He played for the United States in five IIHF World Championships, racking up 43 points with 13 goals and 30 assists. His dedication and passion for the sport really inspired both his teammates and the fans.

In his last IIHF World Championship in May 2024, Johnny Gaudreau really shone, leaving a lasting mark on USA Hockey history. In a fantastic 10-1 win against Kazakhstan, Gaudreau notched up four assists and scored a goal, which brought his career total to 43 points in World Championship play. This accomplishment went beyond Patrick Kane’s former American record of 42 points. Also, Gaudreau’s 30 career assists set a new national record, just surpassing Kane’s 29.

Looking back on this milestone, Gaudreau shared his gratitude and pride in representing his country, saying, “It’s cool. I just found out right after the game. It’s really special, I’m very honored to be able to play for the USA. Any time I get a chance to come over here it’s a true honor. I owe a lot of thanks to my teammates.” After he passed away, the USA Hockey community found different ways to pay tribute to Gaudreau’s memory.

At the 2025 IIHF World Championship, Team USA really honored him by keeping his No. 13 jersey in the locker room for the whole tournament. After winning their first gold medal in 92 years with a 1-0 overtime win over Switzerland, the players proudly lifted Gaudreau’s jersey during the trophy presentation, showing just how much he means to the team.

After that historic win, one of his former Columbus Blue Jackets teammates, Zach Werenski, shared a heartfelt tribute to his late friend. He said, “He’s a guy that if he wasn’t in the playoffs, he was here playing for USA Hockey. I think that’s what every USA hockey player should strive to be. No one deserves this gold medal more than him. It’s been awesome honoring him, especially tonight after winning. It makes me emotional thinking about it, but it’s an awesome way to honor him.”

Johnny Gaudreau’s hockey journey with Team USA says a lot. If he had been around this time, there’s no doubt he would’ve been part of the squad. It’s a bummer that it couldn’t happen, and you could really see how emotional his former teammate and the rest of the Team USA squad were about it. Gaudreau’s family and friends were just over the moon and emotional about this amazing win.

Team USA’s victory is Johnny Gaudreau’s win

When Team USA took back its top spot in hockey by winning the IIHF World Championship gold medal, the former Columbus Blue Jackets star was definitely on the minds of his teammates. Meredith Gaudreau, the late hockey star’s wife, was overcome with emotions as she looked at this.

Feeling all the feels, she shared on her Instagram story, saying, “Congratulations! Proud of everyone in this photo.” She was clearly in awe when she saw her late husband being recognized by his teammates, who just made history in hockey.

After their big win, Team USA gathered for some photos and made a special moment by placing Johnny’s #13 jersey on the IIHF Cup, ensuring his legacy lives on. All in all, these gestures really highlighted just how close and meaningful Johnny was to his teammates, friends, and everyone he ever connected with. He was more than just a hockey player; this tribute was truly something he deserved.