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, a tragic accident shook the core of the Blue Jackets' organization and the lives of many. Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew were struck by a suspected drunken driver while riding their bicycles. This heart-wrenching incident has left an indelible mark on the team and its community.
A Community United in Grief
Most of the Blue Jackets players have returned to their facility, hoping to find solace in the routine of the game they love. A poignant moment of silence was held before the opening faceoff of Friday night's prospect exhibition game between the Blue Jackets and the Sabres, marking the sorrowful reality of their loss.
"We got to play hockey. We're not going to forget about Johnny and his family, the Gaudreau family," Waddell said, emphasizing the dual reality the team faces—continuing their profession while honoring their fallen teammate. "Tragic. Senseless. But now we got to focus on trying to get our team ready to play hockey this year," he added, underscoring the difficult road ahead.
The support has been overwhelming. The NHL and NHL Players' Association have stepped in to provide necessary assistance. This includes grief counseling, added security at vigils, and addressing specific hockey-related issues. There is even talk of altering the league's salary cap rules to provide the Blue Jackets some relief in these trying times.
A Legacy of Tragedy
Unfortunately, this is not the first time tragedy has struck those involved with the Blue Jackets. Waddell himself knows the pain all too well. In 2003, he endured a devastating incident when forward Dany Heatley lost control of his car, resulting in the death of teammate Dan Snyder. More recently, in 2021, Blue Jackets goalie Matiss Kivlenieks died during a July Fourth fireworks accident.
"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 said. His words resonate with the raw truth of grief and the strength found in unity.
Preparing for the Season
With training camp set to open on Thursday, exactly three weeks since the Gaudreaus were killed, the Blue Jackets find themselves navigating through uncharted emotional waters. There are two openings on the roster at forward, one due to a wrist injury that has sidelined Justin Danforth. Waddell and coach Dean Evason, newcomers to Columbus this offseason, face the monumental task of guiding the team through these turbulent times.
"The guys are in really good shape. We've done a lot of testing already, and they're eager to get going," Waddell remarked, highlighting the physical readiness of the team. Yet, the psychological and emotional readiness remains an open question. "Everybody knows that Johnny wants them to play hockey. And everybody's rallying around that," he stated, pointing to a common source of motivation.
Rallying Around a Cause
Gavin Brindley, deeply affected by the loss, reflected on his memories, saying, "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 summed up the current state of the organization, saying, "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. I don't think anybody's focused right now other than on the grieving part, which is understandable."
Despite the monumental challenges, the Blue Jackets are gearing up to embark on a new season, navigating the overlap between tragedy and the enduring spirit of the sport. "We have a reason to play for. And we'll make the best of it," Waddell remarked, capturing the determination that propels this team forward.