In a heartwarming tribute on the ice, Team USA celebrated their historic gold medal win with a poignant nod to the late Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau. Captains Zach Werenski and Dylan Larkin spearheaded the effort to honor their memory, inviting Johnny's family to share the moment.
The plan was simple yet profound: if Team USA clinched gold, they wanted the Gaudreau family to be part of the celebration. “We wanted to get the whole family on, but it was kind of hard with the gate, so we figured we’d grab the kids,” Werenski shared, reflecting on the emotional scene with Johnny’s parents, Guy and Jane.
After a thrilling 2-1 overtime victory against Canada, which marked the United States' first men’s hockey gold in 46 years, Werenski and Larkin brought Johnny and Meredith Gaudreau’s young children, Noa and Johnny Jr., onto the ice. It was a moment that underscored the deep connection and camaraderie within the team.
Werenski expressed a sense of Johnny’s presence throughout the tournament. “I honestly felt he was here.
I felt that feeling a lot in Columbus, and I felt it at the world stage, World Championships last year, now here at the Olympics. I feel like he’s following us, and he’s got our back.”
The Gaudreau brothers tragically passed away in August 2024, but their spirit continues to inspire. Larkin emphasized the significance of having Johnny Jr. and Noa present, saying, “Johnny and Matty should be here, and that is still the biggest loss that all of us, USA Hockey, their family, our family, has gone through.”
The game itself was a nail-biter, with Team USA overcoming a barrage of shots from Canada, thanks in part to the stellar goaltending of Connor Hellebuyck. Nathan MacKinnon’s missed opportunity in the final moments seemed almost fated. Larkin mused, “I think part of the puck not going in our net was somehow Johnny standing there doing something, laughing with Matty.”
For defenseman Brock Faber, seeing the Gaudreau kids during the team photo was a powerful reminder of Johnny’s enduring impact. “Just shows the lasting impact he’ll forever have on this team. His jersey will always be hung up in this locker room.”
Auston Matthews echoed these sentiments, highlighting Johnny’s influence on the team. “We’ve had his jersey in our room last year in the 4 Nations.
Had his jersey in the room here at the Olympics. Just a subtle reminder that him and his brother are with us in spirit.”
This gold medal win was more than just a triumph on the ice; it was a tribute to a beloved teammate whose legacy continues to inspire and unite.