‘It’s been terrible’: Panthers’ Tkachuk opens up about death of friend Johnny Gaudreau

‘It’s Been Terrible’: Panthers’ Tkachuk Reflects on the Loss of Close Friend Johnny Gaudreau

Matthew Tkachuk, Florida Panthers star, opened up on Wednesday about the tragic loss of his close friend and former teammate, Johnny Gaudreau. Gaudreau, along with his brother Matthew, was killed on August 29 in a devastating accident when a suspected drunk driver struck them while they were riding bicycles in rural New Jersey. The driver has been charged with two counts of death by auto, among other offenses.

Speaking during the Panthers’ media day, Tkachuk expressed the deep sorrow he’s felt since the incident. “It’s been terrible. It really has,” Tkachuk said. He fondly remembered Gaudreau as “the most offensively talented player I’ve ever seen” and shared how honored he was to have played alongside him for six seasons in Calgary.

Gaudreau and Tkachuk had built a strong bond both on and off the ice during their time with the Flames. Tkachuk emphasized that the memories he cherishes most aren’t just of Gaudreau’s remarkable skills on the rink but of their friendship off the ice. “I was the lucky one out of everybody in this room to have a great relationship with him off [the ice],” Tkachuk said, his voice tinged with emotion.

Gaudreau and his brother were set to be groomsmen at their sister Katie’s wedding, making the loss even more heart-wrenching. Tkachuk, along with many from the hockey community, attended the services for the Gaudreau brothers, sharing in the grief of their family, including Johnny’s wife Meredith and their children.

Tkachuk vowed to carry Gaudreau’s memory with him, saying, “Johnny is one of my favorite teammates I’ve ever played with. My memory of him will go on forever.”

The Panthers are scheduled to play the Columbus Blue Jackets, Gaudreau’s most recent team, in an emotional home opener on October 15, where further tributes to the Gaudreau brothers are expected.