Absolutely devastated.
Saw the news late last night, and hoped it was just some sick internet rumors, but went to bed with more than a little trepidation and nerves. Woke up this morning and saw my worst fears confirmed, and was just gutted.
Cant believe how senseless and tragic it was, and all the circumstances around it. Of course my heart goes out to their whole family, and the terrible sense of loss and shock they must all be feeling. I just hate drunk drivers so much, and how much pain and suffering they cause with their selfish actions, and how innocent random people have to bear the brunt of it in most cases.
Johnny was easily my favorite since Iggy, and he was the most electric and exciting player I can remember. A rare player who made you gasp in awe and pull you from your seat in sheer exhilaration. I have so many great memories, and will always cherish those amazing goals and plays he made. His sick snipe in that Anaheim series to tie it up in the third, and his sweet penalty shot goal against dallas and then the series winner in overtime. Iconic. He was just so fun to watch in overtime especially, felt like those were the glory years back then, guy just controlled the puck and pace in OT, and it was such a treat and privilege to witness. 3 on 3 was so awesome in those early days.
I remember how excited I was seeing him back in Calgary that first game for Columbus, and how he got a penalty shot in the first few moments of that game. I was so pumped, and was bummed out how missed his shot, but still remember the atmosphere in the dome that night, even though I was just watching on TV. Felt like everyone was standing. He regressed in Columbus the past few years, but I was really looking forward to international hockey, and seeing him potentially play for Team USA, thought he would have been so fun to watch with other elite players, but thats just the random thoughts of a tired mind now. Watching him reunite with a guy like Tkatchuk or setting up sweet 1 timers for a guy like Austin Matthews in the Olympics.
Truly saddened to see the news, and can only hope and pray his family and loved ones will eventually be able to recover. I'll always cherish my Gaudreau jersey and all the memories he gave us.
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