Jim Gaudreau releases statement on deaths of nephews Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau

Jim Gaudreau, the uncle of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, has released a statement following the tragic accident that resulted in the death of his nephews.

“Last night we lost two husbands, two fathers, two sons, two brothers, two sons and brothers-in-law, two nephews, two cousins, two family members, two teammates, two friends but truly two amazing humans,” the family said in a statement provided to WBZ-TV reporter Dan Roche. “We want to let everyone know we are receiving your messages of love and support and we appreciate your continued thoughts and prayers. We ask for your continued respect and privacy during this very difficult period of grief.”

The statement was signed “from all our families and the bottom of our hearts, the Gaudreau, Morris, Korbitz, Venello and Joyce Families.”

Gaudreau joined the Blue Jackets for the 2022-23 season after signing a seven-year contract, following his magical 115-point run in 2021-22 with the Calgary Flames. He was voted an All-Star in 2022-23. He tallied 12 goals and 48 assists in 81 games last season. Throughout his career, Gaudreau registered 743 points in 763 career games. Gaudreau, one of his generation’s best playmakers, racked up exactly 500 assists.

The NHL confirmed the tragic news Friday morning in a statement from commissioner Gary Bettman.

“The National Hockey League family is shocked and saddened by the tragic passing of Columbus Blue Jackets forward Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew,” Bettman said in the statement. “While Johnny’s infectious spirit for the game and show-stopping skills on the ice earned him the nickname ‘Johnny Hockey,’ he was more than just a dazzling hockey player; he was a doting father and beloved husband, son, brother and teammate who endeared himself to every person fortunate enough to have crossed his path.”