As a Columbus native, long suffering CBJ fan, and mental health professional, I can't thank you enough for the kind words, respect, and encouragement you've communicated in this video. I, like so many fellow fans, am still in the grieving process and every little bit helps. I may not have met Johnny, but I have met many current and former players and every one of them have been huge parts of our community. Of course there are many things bigger than hockey, this tragedy is an all too bitter reminder of that. But let us not forget how this sport can bring people together as well. While we must mourn our losses we must also celebrate our victories, and hockey has always been a huge part of that for me. Thanks again for handling this tragic loss so well on your channel, you've struck just the right tone throughout and you're always welcome on the bandwagon.
The games between the Flames and Blue Jackets on Novermber 29th and December 3rd... It's going to be sea of emotion watching those. Rest easy, Johnny Gaudreau.
Hope there is a retirement of his #13 at both games... Maybe too soon but think it would be a great gesture to truly amazing human being and great hockey player.
Honestly, as hard as it will be, it's nice the home-and-home is within the same week. Fans on both teams with have those days to remember Johnny and hold the respective ceremonies in each building.
I’m a cbj fan, and I’m on the fence about whether the jackets should retire 13 this year. On one hand, it would memorialize the tragedy and loss of such an amazing person and hockey player. But on the other, he was only here for two years and it would be insulting to Kivi, unless they also retired 80. So I totally understand the argument either way. That being said, 13 has to go to the rafters in the saddledome this year, there is no argument against that. With the amount of time he was in Calgary and the impact he had there, I can’t fathom not retiring Johnnys number. And it absolutely needs to happen when Columbus is in town. That’s… gonna be a gut wrenching game to watch
i really hope no team decided to be a moment of silence for their first meeting vs the blue jackets, it should be left to the flames to do it. Other teams doing one at their home opener would be cool
14:13 Elvis has stated a few times that the death of Matiss has mentally affected him big time. Like a combination of guilt and PTSD. The Cannon at nationwide also sometimes would trigger it.
This. I really don’t understand how so many people wonder what happened to Elvis. What happened is he watched his best friend die in front of him. Of course his play declined. Although I do agree he needs to be traded, I’ve always thought he needed to get away from here in order to recover mentally
@@kydon07 Not only just die in front of him, if I'm remembering correctly, Elvis said Matiss stepped in front of him and/or his wife to shield them. still such a heartbreaking situation that I think about every time I hear fireworks, so I could only imagine the type of stuff Elvis goes thru.
Couldnt they both on eachs home ice? Have duel retirements in both Calgary and Columbus! Think it would be cool to see and both franchises would support that I think
It probably should and will wait a year or two. It wouldn't be right to pressure the family to participate in such an emotionally charged public display so soon after the fact
I know this comment will likely get buried but I've been a Jackets fan since day one. It has been nice seeing the support from fans around the league for the last week, but I think I can speak for a lot of us when I say we are dreading this season. Honoring Johnny and Matty is paramount, but it will be the only thing spoken about by the media for every game home or away. Every TV stream, every radio show, every article written will be a reminder of the man we lost. On top of the fact that he was the only one to choose us, and stepped up to be the guy who could foster our young skill forwards. We lost that. Losing the best player on the team is terrible for any organization, but Johnny was also the bridge towards a brighter future for the team and that feels like its been demolished completely. It is hard to believe that Kent Johnson, Adam Fantilli, or any of the other rookies will ever become the players they otherwise could have been, and if they do it will be in another sweater. For the first two decades of the team, the front office and players didn't do the fans any favors. But honestly the real killer during that time was the resurgence of the closest teams in the Red Wings, Blackhawks, and Penguins Stanley Cup runs. We were always the team they could take a short drive to beat up on and bring their fans with them. In a lot of ways it finally felt like maybe it was our turn to enjoy the drives home but I cant help but feel like we'll be passed by once again. Thanks for all you do Shannon, I love your videos and please continue to espouse a bit of empathy or support for our team.
i'm honestly not sure how the team will move on from this. i started rooting for the jackets in 2020 when i was going to school at ohio state, and no matter what happens i'll stick by them.
Different sport and a long, long time ago, but same state. In 1920, Cleveland Indians star shortstop Ray Chapman was killed by a pitched ball in a game against the Yankees, and less than two months later the Indians won the World Series. Also same state, in 1940, Cincinnati Reds catcher Willard Hershberger took his own life during a road trip in Boston, and the Reds also won the World Series that year. Teams can rally around tragedies. Not expecting anything like a championship for the Blue Jax because they're not a good enough team, but maybe they can rally and show substantial improvement and challenge for a playoff spot.
I'm just hoping this is as low as it gets. Thinking back to when the Crew were at the lowest point with relocation being extremely likely, fans saving the team and now we're in our best ever era with potential to be the best MLS team ever if they keep it up, I'm just hoping the right moves are made with the Jackets and it's only up from now on, I'm not expecting the heights the Crew are making in MLS but at least some good seasons and decent playoff pushes in 2-4 years would be nice. But hopefully this is the final tragedy and towards the end of constant suffering for us. Hopefully there's good times ahead. Hopefully.
That’s a fan. If you aren’t a homestayer you stick by your team that finds you. Wings fan, but have always appreciated and secretly rooted for the Jackets and Min Wild
SJ Sharks fan here. I’ll be rooting for them, as unlikely as a playoff spot will be, I’m wishing the best for the Blue Jackets this year! Thanks for your steadfast nhl coverage and your delicacy in facing the tough stuff. Hearts out to the CBJ hockey community ❤❤❤ and please folks don’t drink and drive😢
I’ve never paid attention to Columbus in my 15 years of watching hockey, but starting now I’m gonna be rooting for them so hard. No franchise Deserves this. No one
Reminds me of Nick Adenhart back in April 2009 when he, Courtney Stewart, & Henry Pearson were killed when Andrew Gallo was drunk and struck his minivan to the vehicle that the three of the four were on. Jon Wilhite was the lone survivor, but he had a lot of surgeries and is still recovering to this day. Us Angels fans know tragedy like this, but this one gave us Vietnam War Flashbacks.
As a CBJ fan, thank you. Over the years, every time we look like we’re about to take that next step, some sort of tragedy or controversy happens. Johnny was special because he chose Columbus when he could’ve gotten more money from better teams. Let’s rally this upcoming season for him!
Very well presented, Shannon. Maybe one of your best videos to date. The way you speak to the audience shows honest compassion which is hard to find on RUclips sometimes. Kudos. Rest easy Gaudreau brothers, Calgary loves you both.
The hard part is having a window into Johnny’s beautiful family and really feeling what a wonderful, rare, vibrant man he was. And that he and his brother were killed by a violent, senseless act. It wasn’t a medical condition we could accept as a natural event but a crime committed. Being born and raised in Columbus I never could understand how hockey fans put down our beautiful, clean, courteous city. And Johnny wanted to live here and raise his beautiful children here. It meant so much to us. Everybody here is just sad now. I feel we need a team chaplain.
People from the outside make Ohio jokes because they think the state is boring or trashy. Plus plenty of people don't like Ohio State, so everything Columbus gets lumped in. Columbus is a pretty darn nice city outside of a couple poorer run down areas (which every city has).
Do fans often put down Columbus? Having not been there Im inclined to think that its more people just not knowing much about it, and thinking out of naivety that its just some hole in the ground. Or just not as desirable as a big city. Obviously that's incorrect. Some guys like smaller cities. I know I do.
As a fan of CBJ living in Flyers country, the passing of the Gaudreau brothers hit me extra hard. I live 20 minutes from where it happened, so it hit me like a brick wall. I know this season will be extremely hard, but I know the boys will give everything they have to honor their brother!!! RIP Johnny!
This video is the equivalent of a warm hug from a loved one telling us it’s going to be ok, but for the entire hockey community. Thanks Shannon. We all needed it
Absolutely beautiful video. Always a Jackets fan. Forever. Rest easy Matiss. Rest easy Johnny. Rest easy Matthew. Thank you Shannon. We all love and appreciate you. Jackets Strong.
When I was 10 I was in and out of the hospital, I was super anorexic and was getting weekly iron infusions, during this time the NHL Allstar game came to Columbus, seeing Johnny Hockey for the first time, a player so small compared to others gave me inspiration. I never was able to get back into playing hockey full time but Johnny Hockey was my favorite player not named Cam Atkinson, in middle school the jackets won 16 straight and made the playoffs, that’s when I first really got into stats for other teams and the history of the nhl, thats when I found your channel, but that year Johnny put up a bunch of highlights and won the bing, he only took 2 penalty’s all season, something I can’t fathom. But my love for Johnny continued to grow, I always made sure I went when the jackets played against Calgary. I remember one game the Jackets lost 9-6 to the flames. Cam Atkinson had a hat-trick and so did Johnny hockey. I didn’t care that the Jackets lost. I got to see both of my favorite players score hate tricks. I was on vacation when Johnny signed with the Jackets got the notification after playing mini golf after hearing that he might go to Columbus last minute, but I didn’t think anything of it. I thought he would go to Philly or New Jersey like everyone else but him going to Columbus was a fever dream, I still hadn’t gotten over the fact that Johnny Goudreau signed with the Jackets long-term on a bargain contract all the way up until his death. Johnny Hockey will never be forgotten. I can’t wait to feed you passes in Hockey Heaven ❤
In 24 years of existence: 6/24 playoff appearances (25%) Played Stanley cup winners 3/4 straight years (Boston in finals 2019) 1 playoff series win 1 draft lottery win (5th to 3rd in 2016) Almost always drops in Draft lottery (2023 still hurts) 2 player passings in last 3 years. If there’s a single franchise the NHL seems to hate it’s this one.
It was hard to press play on this video but I'm glad that I did. I hope our players seek out help for their mental states right now. I think our players will surprise a lot of people with Creeds coaching style. I will cheer for the CBJ if we are 0-82.
There's a lot of emotional strain at the best of times, but Columbus has been dealing with Matiss, and now with Johnny on top of that. I don't know how the Blue Jackets as a franchise can shake it, but if they can make something good of it, it'll be an amazing thing to witness. I just want them to be well.
Thanks for this thoughtful and sensitive preview. I just hope that everyone affected by this loss can find a way through the grief. Johnny Hockey was a star and his brother shared the same love and commitment to the sport. I feel like the league should create an award in their name, to honor their memory for generations to come.
LA fan here, I was rooting for them to win the draft lottery for the last two years now. In fairness, some of the other teams in it were rivals (or the Blackhawks) but at some level, I kind of wanted a team like Columbus to get someone like Bedard. I really hope as a franchise they climb up. I understand if it takes a couple years, but I hope they figure it out. I think that fan base has earned a great team.
Some really poignant words about all of this, Shannon. Thanks for being real, and for expressing how a lot of us are feeling a little over a week after the tragedy. Being affected by a strangers' death (even if we feel like we know them via hockey) is a sign of empathy and shows that the sport means more than just wins or losses. I had a soft spot for Columbus before this year, being a fan of the other 2000 expansion team, but I'll definitely be actively rooting for the Jackets this year and will make an effort to watch more of those games. I'm hoping the players and fans have some good moments to cheer for this year. It's going to be a raw, emotional year in Columbus.
To add to the notion that Tragedy is a part of the Jackets' identity: Nationwide Arena and the CBJ are also where the first and currently only fan fatality in the NHL's history has ever occurred. Brittanie Cecil tragically passed away from injuries after a puck was deflected into the stands and struck her in the left temple on March 16, 2002. It was awful and it haunted Espen Knutsen for a long time. Its why we have safety nets now around the rink. RIP Brittanie - we still haven't forgotten.
Excellent Excellent video Shannon, you showed passion and emotion for this tragic time for all hockey fans, especially flames and blue jackets fan . I love my hockey team for myself. I'm a Habs fan, but I always put my love for hockey above all so my heabreaks and go out for the Gaudreau family and the blue jackets and I will definitely be rooting for the blue jackets this year because im a hockey fan first and a Habs fan second so blue jackets 100% have my support go Columbus go sorry don't know how blue jackets fans say it if there is a term like go Habs go
As a Columbus fan, I have no idea what to think or how to feel about the season coming up.. it all just feels kinda empty and I just want to get to watching hockey again. No expectations but healing.
I've never said or written anything on your channel but this one is, hands down, the best chronicle of a teams season outlook you could have done. Bravo! 😔
I think Sean Monahan will be a wonderful leader to the young players. He was amazing for the young players of Montreal. I feel sad cause his primary reason for signing with the blue jackets was to play with his close friend and ex teammate from Calgary. This is going to be a tough year for him.
The interview I saw of him, I forget with what media outlet, was one of the saddest things I've seen in the wake of the Gaudreaus' passing. Sean really wanted to reconnect with his old friend and have their kids grow up together. I feel as bad for him as for anybody else connected with this awful situation.
Columbus isn’t my team; but I admired Johnny Gaudreau and always felt bad for the blue jackets not doing so well. After tragedy after tragedy, they deserve better. It’s been hard enough for the wider community, I legitimately cried up when I heard The news. I’m for the blue jackets. I hope they they have a season they can be proud of, even if they don’t make the playoffs.
I think this will be the year people realize how strong of a market Columbus actually is. I would say, bar none, Columbus fans are the most resilient in the sports world. Going to a game in Columbus is a must do experience
You can see it on kids faces around the rinks here in SJ... and in turn parents. I'm not with Hollydell but kids are carrying a heavy load on their hearts and it's a tough to witness. Like Shannon said, if you're having a difficult time, talk to someone. There's no shame in having empathy in the wake of tragedy. The other side of the coin is the love and pride in those boys being shown. It's a terrible time right now but with time a lot of good will come from this due to the inspiring nature and will of Matt and Johnny. Two really amazing boys who will be sorely missed and always remembered.
Friends here in Seattle saying they have something akin to survivor guilt when they step on the ice. If it’s that bad for us who never met him, I can’t imagine his family. And I’ve buried one of my kids, too. It’s beyond unimaginable.
Thoughtfully and tenderly done Shannon. Everyone with a heart will be going a little easy on Columbus this year, and smile when they pull together. Rest in peace to the Gaudreau brothers. May Columbus be free of these tragedies going forward as you said.
I think, in light of the tragedy, the unexpectedly biggest move Waddell made this offseason was reacquiring Jack Johnson. Not for the hockey part but rather the fact that he was a member of the leadership core back when most of the *current* leadership core were all rookies. There was a pretty hot debate between whether the Jackets would name him or Nick Foligno captain. Fliggy was the right choice, but his steadfastness is going to be SO huge in the locker room this season.
As a person who just like you isn't a fan of Columbus, your video hit my heart. You are absolutely right and i want the absolutely best for the organization that is dealing with this horrific situation. Thank you for your respect and response
Thank you for doing this Shannon. As a CBJ fan, I’ve always appreciated how much respect you show to every team, including us. It’s been a dark week and it’s been hard to think about the hockey side so thank you for navigating this so tactfully. It’s difficult to be hopeful right now but it’s good to be reminded that the team still has potential to improve and start winning eventually, just like Johnny envisioned. He believed in this team and he wouldn’t want us to lose that belief just because he can’t be here.
Why are you not on NHL network????? You know hockey better than ANY pundit on TV. RIP Johnny and Matty. Such a senseless tragedy. Most deep condolences to the entire Gaudreau family and friends, teammates, and former teammates and just anyone who knew him.
I hope cole and sean has a really good season. I understand what you get about the blue jackets being forgotten about. The blue jackets are the least talk about team in Columbus. Literally it took our star player passing for being heavily talked about.
Thank you for this Shannon. Very well done. I feel for all of Columbus' fans and hockey fans in general. Calgary showed their love and support and I cannot wait until Columbus comes here to play the Flames, there won't be a dry eye in the Saddledome. And yes, if you need emotional help, please tell someone, call, there are a lot of avenues you can take to get and feel better. Go Blue Jackets!!!!
The situation while not the exact same reminds me of how I felt with Vladdy Konstantinov. Johnny will always be a part of the Jackets just like Vladdy will always be a part of the Wings.
Really appreciate this video, giving the tragedy and those suffering the attention they need while starting to talk about the hockey side of things. I'm a pretty committed CBJ fan, but the hockey doesn't feel relevant right now. Just hoping the players, team and families can lean on their loved ones and manage as best as possible.
I’m not a Blue Jackets fan, nor am I a Flames fan. I only really saw Johnny Gaudreau play against my leafs. But his death really upset me. I did feel rather foolish for grieving him, especially considering the fact that I am not a fan of either of his teams. I still choke up thinking of him and Matty. Thank you for the validation that it’s ok to feel the way I do. I wish the Blue Jackets a year of success amidst all the tragedy. Rest in peace Johnny Hockey. Lots of love from a Leafs fan ❤
It's been over a week and it still feels surreal and felt like I haven't fully comprehended it yet. I feel like I'll be tuning into more CBJ games this year than any season prior
Thank you Shannon. Always a class act. Fifth Line loves your videos. First season since 2012 where I won’t have season tickets. Feel for the family (obviously) and fanbase/organization. Never even computed the Salary Floor ramifications.
Thank you! Thank you for your empathy and kind words. We here in Columbus appreciate it. We have always been the team no you tube or xm stations really speak of. We always watch your channel because you pay attention to us. Not only during our tragedies, but all the time. You are fair to all teams. We as fans appreciate it. It’s been hard to be a CBJ fan but we still love them and believe in them. Still dealing with Kivi’s tragic death and now Johnny and his brother. It is so very hard and you seem to understand. So again, thank you.
Well done Shannon. I appreciate your heart and the way you presented this video. Totally heart broken for his family,friends and all hockey fans. So sorry to see this organization be hit with yet another blow. My condolences and prayers to the Gaudreau family and friends.
I really appreciate the respect that you show to difficult situations. I hope that the CBJ can rally around this the way that the Cleveland Monsters rallied around the sickness and passing of their long-time equipment manage, Phil Simon. They won the Calder cup that year, largely through the leadership of Ryan Craig.
i am a firm believer that humans can learn more from failures and tragedies than they ever do from successes and good times. good times are easy, hard times are an opportunity to find more within yourself. any death is painful. but those brothers' death was tragic. the best homage is to try to be better because you admired that person. and both seemed very admirable to me. 🙏
Absolute class act Shannon. As a Wings fan I’d like to extend my condolences to blue jackets fans. I will definitely be cheering for you guys this year.
Sure hope the Blue Jackets honour the spirit & memory of the Gaudreau brothers with a successful season. The Blue Jackets have never been a fave team for me - but I'll be cheering loudly for them this year. Like you said, I hope the players, the city, and the league rallies forward and find some success.
Before the event last week, I was able to see this team finishing 5th-6th. With the Evason's introduction presser, he felt like Torts when we hired him and this could be a repeat of 2016-17 in which getting the players to buy in and get back where they were during the Torts years, or at least don't be a bottom 5 team. They have cap space to be really active, including able to deal out Kuraly and Provorov, to stock up and then be able to go big next off-season. Now, I have zero clue. It is too late, and extremely difficult, to find a replacement which may be find a stop gap from close to end of training camp to after the first month, but it is not perfect. This season feels like it's going to be a mulligan in which any outcome will be fine. If the team just completely bottoms out, it will be acceptable for the time being in which they would be able to reload for next season. If somehow the team is able to rally around pull off a run, that would amazing. I'm just hoping that at the end season the players able to find the joy of playing again.
When I started getting more into hockey, I picked up the Blue Jackets as a second team because they were in the opposite conference and have been an underdog through basically all of their history. I was thrilled when Johnny Gaudreau signed in Columbus, not only because he was one of my favorite players, but because it meant more guys would follow suit and maybe they'd start making some real noise. Man.
Well done will be giving my support to Columbus unfortunately this has taken a significant toll on me it’s gonna take me along time to recover from this
No matter what…this season’s for #13…the player, the person…every win, every loss, every goal…do it all for Johnny this year boys. Thank you so much for what you do, Shannon.
Never followed the flames or Columbus but man being a small hockey player myself I looked up to and admired Johnny. Every time I step on the ice and realize that everyone around me is two heads taller and 30-50 pounds heavier I put myself in his shoes, then I play my heart out.
As a Sabres fan I'll be pulling for the Jackets, how can you not.. As many have expressed, I still can't believe he's gone.. Gonna be a tough season. RIP Gaudreau brothers 🙏🏻❤️
As a Columbus native, long suffering CBJ fan, and mental health professional, I can't thank you enough for the kind words, respect, and encouragement you've communicated in this video. I, like so many fellow fans, am still in the grieving process and every little bit helps. I may not have met Johnny, but I have met many current and former players and every one of them have been huge parts of our community. Of course there are many things bigger than hockey, this tragedy is an all too bitter reminder of that. But let us not forget how this sport can bring people together as well. While we must mourn our losses we must also celebrate our victories, and hockey has always been a huge part of that for me. Thanks again for handling this tragic loss so well on your channel, you've struck just the right tone throughout and you're always welcome on the bandwagon.
This is why I watch Shannon. He has empathy for the personal and that players are human. I respect that endlessly.
Beautifully said. ❤
The games between the Flames and Blue Jackets on Novermber 29th and December 3rd... It's going to be sea of emotion watching those. Rest easy, Johnny Gaudreau.
Hope there is a retirement of his #13 at both games... Maybe too soon but think it would be a great gesture to truly amazing human being and great hockey player.
Honestly, as hard as it will be, it's nice the home-and-home is within the same week. Fans on both teams with have those days to remember Johnny and hold the respective ceremonies in each building.
I’m a cbj fan, and I’m on the fence about whether the jackets should retire 13 this year. On one hand, it would memorialize the tragedy and loss of such an amazing person and hockey player. But on the other, he was only here for two years and it would be insulting to Kivi, unless they also retired 80. So I totally understand the argument either way.
That being said, 13 has to go to the rafters in the saddledome this year, there is no argument against that. With the amount of time he was in Calgary and the impact he had there, I can’t fathom not retiring Johnnys number. And it absolutely needs to happen when Columbus is in town.
That’s… gonna be a gut wrenching game to watch
i really hope no team decided to be a moment of silence for their first meeting vs the blue jackets, it should be left to the flames to do it. Other teams doing one at their home opener would be cool
That game is going to very moving
RIP Johnny Gaudreau 😢😢😢😢😢❤❤❤❤
14:13 Elvis has stated a few times that the death of Matiss has mentally affected him big time. Like a combination of guilt and PTSD. The Cannon at nationwide also sometimes would trigger it.
i dont know how anyone would continue that tradition after what happened, especially How it happened
@@milo7256idk it’s a tradition at nationwide so it’s one of those situations that’s hard to figure out
This. I really don’t understand how so many people wonder what happened to Elvis. What happened is he watched his best friend die in front of him. Of course his play declined. Although I do agree he needs to be traded, I’ve always thought he needed to get away from here in order to recover mentally
@@kydon07 Not only just die in front of him, if I'm remembering correctly, Elvis said Matiss stepped in front of him and/or his wife to shield them. still such a heartbreaking situation that I think about every time I hear fireworks, so I could only imagine the type of stuff Elvis goes thru.
@@CinCity29both of them actually, the implication was the firework woulda hit Elvis' wife and (possibly) his then-gestating son
Gaudreau brothers being gone still doesn‘t feel real. RIP Flames should retire 13 on December 3rd 2024 VS Columbus
Great idea
Couldnt they both on eachs home ice? Have duel retirements in both Calgary and Columbus! Think it would be cool to see and both franchises would support that I think
@@heathclark318that would be a nice idea. As a neutral fan, I’d make an effort to watch both.
It probably should and will wait a year or two. It wouldn't be right to pressure the family to participate in such an emotionally charged public display so soon after the fact
It still feels like Johnny Hockey is going to fly out on the ice on opening night. It's surreal and unreal.
Rip the gaudreau brothers ❤️ 🙏 respect to shannon for sensitive approach with this cbj preview video
Still hung up over everything. I can’t imagine how they are going to move forward.
Same. It’s sticking with me pretty hard too.
I know this comment will likely get buried but I've been a Jackets fan since day one. It has been nice seeing the support from fans around the league for the last week, but I think I can speak for a lot of us when I say we are dreading this season. Honoring Johnny and Matty is paramount, but it will be the only thing spoken about by the media for every game home or away. Every TV stream, every radio show, every article written will be a reminder of the man we lost. On top of the fact that he was the only one to choose us, and stepped up to be the guy who could foster our young skill forwards. We lost that. Losing the best player on the team is terrible for any organization, but Johnny was also the bridge towards a brighter future for the team and that feels like its been demolished completely. It is hard to believe that Kent Johnson, Adam Fantilli, or any of the other rookies will ever become the players they otherwise could have been, and if they do it will be in another sweater.
For the first two decades of the team, the front office and players didn't do the fans any favors. But honestly the real killer during that time was the resurgence of the closest teams in the Red Wings, Blackhawks, and Penguins Stanley Cup runs. We were always the team they could take a short drive to beat up on and bring their fans with them. In a lot of ways it finally felt like maybe it was our turn to enjoy the drives home but I cant help but feel like we'll be passed by once again. Thanks for all you do Shannon, I love your videos and please continue to espouse a bit of empathy or support for our team.
i'm honestly not sure how the team will move on from this. i started rooting for the jackets in 2020 when i was going to school at ohio state, and no matter what happens i'll stick by them.
Different sport and a long, long time ago, but same state. In 1920, Cleveland Indians star shortstop Ray Chapman was killed by a pitched ball in a game against the Yankees, and less than two months later the Indians won the World Series. Also same state, in 1940, Cincinnati Reds catcher Willard Hershberger took his own life during a road trip in Boston, and the Reds also won the World Series that year. Teams can rally around tragedies. Not expecting anything like a championship for the Blue Jax because they're not a good enough team, but maybe they can rally and show substantial improvement and challenge for a playoff spot.
I'm just hoping this is as low as it gets.
Thinking back to when the Crew were at the lowest point with relocation being extremely likely, fans saving the team and now we're in our best ever era with potential to be the best MLS team ever if they keep it up, I'm just hoping the right moves are made with the Jackets and it's only up from now on, I'm not expecting the heights the Crew are making in MLS but at least some good seasons and decent playoff pushes in 2-4 years would be nice.
But hopefully this is the final tragedy and towards the end of constant suffering for us. Hopefully there's good times ahead. Hopefully.
That’s a fan.
If you aren’t a homestayer you stick by your team that finds you.
Wings fan, but have always appreciated and secretly rooted for the Jackets and Min Wild
SJ Sharks fan here. I’ll be rooting for them, as unlikely as a playoff spot will be, I’m wishing the best for the Blue Jackets this year! Thanks for your steadfast nhl coverage and your delicacy in facing the tough stuff. Hearts out to the CBJ hockey community ❤❤❤ and please folks don’t drink and drive😢
I’ve never paid attention to Columbus in my 15 years of watching hockey, but starting now I’m gonna be rooting for them so hard. No franchise Deserves this. No one
Reminds me of Nick Adenhart back in April 2009 when he, Courtney Stewart, & Henry Pearson were killed when Andrew Gallo was drunk and struck his minivan to the vehicle that the three of the four were on. Jon Wilhite was the lone survivor, but he had a lot of surgeries and is still recovering to this day.
Us Angels fans know tragedy like this, but this one gave us Vietnam War Flashbacks.
As a CBJ fan, thank you. Over the years, every time we look like we’re about to take that next step, some sort of tragedy or controversy happens. Johnny was special because he chose Columbus when he could’ve gotten more money from better teams. Let’s rally this upcoming season for him!
Very well presented, Shannon. Maybe one of your best videos to date. The way you speak to the audience shows honest compassion which is hard to find on RUclips sometimes. Kudos. Rest easy Gaudreau brothers, Calgary loves you both.
The hard part is having a window into Johnny’s beautiful family and really feeling what a wonderful, rare, vibrant man he was. And that he and his brother were killed by a violent, senseless act. It wasn’t a medical condition we could accept as a natural event but a crime committed. Being born and raised in Columbus I never could understand how hockey fans put down our beautiful, clean, courteous city. And Johnny wanted to live here and raise his beautiful children here. It meant so much to us. Everybody here is just sad now. I feel we need a team chaplain.
People from the outside make Ohio jokes because they think the state is boring or trashy. Plus plenty of people don't like Ohio State, so everything Columbus gets lumped in. Columbus is a pretty darn nice city outside of a couple poorer run down areas (which every city has).
Do fans often put down Columbus?
Having not been there Im inclined to think that its more people just not knowing much about it, and thinking out of naivety that its just some hole in the ground. Or just not as desirable as a big city. Obviously that's incorrect. Some guys like smaller cities. I know I do.
RIP Johnny & Matthew Gaudreau You will both be missed so much! I hope Columbus has a great season just for Johnny ! ❤
As a fan of CBJ living in Flyers country, the passing of the Gaudreau brothers hit me extra hard. I live 20 minutes from where it happened, so it hit me like a brick wall. I know this season will be extremely hard, but I know the boys will give everything they have to honor their brother!!! RIP Johnny!
This video is the equivalent of a warm hug from a loved one telling us it’s going to be ok, but for the entire hockey community. Thanks Shannon. We all needed it
Blue Jackets miracle run for Johnny.
Absolutely beautiful video. Always a Jackets fan. Forever. Rest easy Matiss. Rest easy Johnny. Rest easy Matthew. Thank you Shannon. We all love and appreciate you. Jackets Strong.
even as a fan of a team in the division, I will root for Columbus this year.
Thank you Shannon. As a new hockey fan in 2016 when I moved to Columbus, and therefore CBJ fan, I thank you for this sensitive video
When I was 10 I was in and out of the hospital, I was super anorexic and was getting weekly iron infusions, during this time the NHL Allstar game came to Columbus, seeing Johnny Hockey for the first time, a player so small compared to others gave me inspiration. I never was able to get back into playing hockey full time but Johnny Hockey was my favorite player not named Cam Atkinson, in middle school the jackets won 16 straight and made the playoffs, that’s when I first really got into stats for other teams and the history of the nhl, thats when I found your channel, but that year Johnny put up a bunch of highlights and won the bing, he only took 2 penalty’s all season, something I can’t fathom. But my love for Johnny continued to grow, I always made sure I went when the jackets played against Calgary. I remember one game the Jackets lost 9-6 to the flames. Cam Atkinson had a hat-trick and so did Johnny hockey. I didn’t care that the Jackets lost. I got to see both of my favorite players score hate tricks. I was on vacation when Johnny signed with the Jackets got the notification after playing mini golf after hearing that he might go to Columbus last minute, but I didn’t think anything of it. I thought he would go to Philly or New Jersey like everyone else but him going to Columbus was a fever dream, I still hadn’t gotten over the fact that Johnny Goudreau signed with the Jackets long-term on a bargain contract all the way up until his death. Johnny Hockey will never be forgotten. I can’t wait to feed you passes in Hockey Heaven ❤
In 24 years of existence:
6/24 playoff appearances (25%)
Played Stanley cup winners 3/4 straight years (Boston in finals 2019)
1 playoff series win
1 draft lottery win (5th to 3rd in 2016)
Almost always drops in Draft lottery (2023 still hurts)
2 player passings in last 3 years.
If there’s a single franchise the NHL seems to hate it’s this one.
We Win For Johnny
It was hard to press play on this video but I'm glad that I did. I hope our players seek out help for their mental states right now.
I think our players will surprise a lot of people with Creeds coaching style. I will cheer for the CBJ if we are 0-82.
Didn't think going into this season I'd feel worse for a franchise than I did for Arizona
There's a lot of emotional strain at the best of times, but Columbus has been dealing with Matiss, and now with Johnny on top of that. I don't know how the Blue Jackets as a franchise can shake it, but if they can make something good of it, it'll be an amazing thing to witness.
I just want them to be well.
Thanks for this thoughtful and sensitive preview. I just hope that everyone affected by this loss can find a way through the grief. Johnny Hockey was a star and his brother shared the same love and commitment to the sport. I feel like the league should create an award in their name, to honor their memory for generations to come.
Thank you for your very kind and thoughtful words for us fans here in Columbus.
I do feel bad for Blue Jackets fans. The number of things that have gone wrong in recent years is unbelievable.
It would be nice if Columbus somehow got a good record at the end of this, but if they don't it would be nice if they could at least get first pick
LA fan here, I was rooting for them to win the draft lottery for the last two years now. In fairness, some of the other teams in it were rivals (or the Blackhawks) but at some level, I kind of wanted a team like Columbus to get someone like Bedard.
I really hope as a franchise they climb up. I understand if it takes a couple years, but I hope they figure it out. I think that fan base has earned a great team.
27:00 on… you’re a good man, Shannon. Appreciate you advocating for paying attention to our mental health. Absolutely needed in this day and age.
Some really poignant words about all of this, Shannon. Thanks for being real, and for expressing how a lot of us are feeling a little over a week after the tragedy. Being affected by a strangers' death (even if we feel like we know them via hockey) is a sign of empathy and shows that the sport means more than just wins or losses.
I had a soft spot for Columbus before this year, being a fan of the other 2000 expansion team, but I'll definitely be actively rooting for the Jackets this year and will make an effort to watch more of those games. I'm hoping the players and fans have some good moments to cheer for this year. It's going to be a raw, emotional year in Columbus.
To add to the notion that Tragedy is a part of the Jackets' identity: Nationwide Arena and the CBJ are also where the first and currently only fan fatality in the NHL's history has ever occurred.
Brittanie Cecil tragically passed away from injuries after a puck was deflected into the stands and struck her in the left temple on March 16, 2002. It was awful and it haunted Espen Knutsen for a long time. Its why we have safety nets now around the rink.
RIP Brittanie - we still haven't forgotten.
Great series and I love your coverage on this
Excellent Excellent video Shannon, you showed passion and emotion for this tragic time for all hockey fans, especially flames and blue jackets fan . I love my hockey team for myself. I'm a Habs fan, but I always put my love for hockey above all so my heabreaks and go out for the Gaudreau family and the blue jackets and I will definitely be rooting for the blue jackets this year because im a hockey fan first and a Habs fan second so blue jackets 100% have my support go Columbus go sorry don't know how blue jackets fans say it if there is a term like go Habs go
As a Columbus fan, I have no idea what to think or how to feel about the season coming up.. it all just feels kinda empty and I just want to get to watching hockey again. No expectations but healing.
You sir are a class act that was very moving...good on you...
Wow thanks for this. It’s been a rough week as a die hard blue jackets fan. This made me feel better.
I've never said or written anything on your channel but this one is, hands down, the best chronicle of a teams season outlook you could have done. Bravo! 😔
I think Sean Monahan will be a wonderful leader to the young players. He was amazing for the young players of Montreal. I feel sad cause his primary reason for signing with the blue jackets was to play with his close friend and ex teammate from Calgary. This is going to be a tough year for him.
Yeah they would have re found the magic they had in Calgary it def sucks
The interview I saw of him, I forget with what media outlet, was one of the saddest things I've seen in the wake of the Gaudreaus' passing. Sean really wanted to reconnect with his old friend and have their kids grow up together. I feel as bad for him as for anybody else connected with this awful situation.
Columbus isn’t my team; but I admired Johnny Gaudreau and always felt bad for the blue jackets not doing so well.
After tragedy after tragedy, they deserve better. It’s been hard enough for the wider community, I legitimately cried up when I heard The news. I’m for the blue jackets. I hope they they have a season they can be proud of, even if they don’t make the playoffs.
I think this will be the year people realize how strong of a market Columbus actually is. I would say, bar none, Columbus fans are the most resilient in the sports world. Going to a game in Columbus is a must do experience
You can see it on kids faces around the rinks here in SJ... and in turn parents. I'm not with Hollydell but kids are carrying a heavy load on their hearts and it's a tough to witness. Like Shannon said, if you're having a difficult time, talk to someone. There's no shame in having empathy in the wake of tragedy. The other side of the coin is the love and pride in those boys being shown. It's a terrible time right now but with time a lot of good will come from this due to the inspiring nature and will of Matt and Johnny. Two really amazing boys who will be sorely missed and always remembered.
Friends here in Seattle saying they have something akin to survivor guilt when they step on the ice. If it’s that bad for us who never met him, I can’t imagine his family. And I’ve buried one of my kids, too. It’s beyond unimaginable.
Thoughtfully and tenderly done Shannon. Everyone with a heart will be going a little easy on Columbus this year, and smile when they pull together.
Rest in peace to the Gaudreau brothers. May Columbus be free of these tragedies going forward as you said.
I think, in light of the tragedy, the unexpectedly biggest move Waddell made this offseason was reacquiring Jack Johnson. Not for the hockey part but rather the fact that he was a member of the leadership core back when most of the *current* leadership core were all rookies. There was a pretty hot debate between whether the Jackets would name him or Nick Foligno captain. Fliggy was the right choice, but his steadfastness is going to be SO huge in the locker room this season.
Great preview, and I think we all share the same sentiment, Go Jackets
And if you drink please don't drive.
Excellent Blue Jackets preview and wonderful comments about Johnny Gaudreau.
Fabulous speech Shannon, you captured it all, Amen! Best of luck to Columbus people!
As a person who just like you isn't a fan of Columbus, your video hit my heart. You are absolutely right and i want the absolutely best for the organization that is dealing with this horrific situation. Thank you for your respect and response
Thank you for doing this Shannon. As a CBJ fan, I’ve always appreciated how much respect you show to every team, including us. It’s been a dark week and it’s been hard to think about the hockey side so thank you for navigating this so tactfully. It’s difficult to be hopeful right now but it’s good to be reminded that the team still has potential to improve and start winning eventually, just like Johnny envisioned. He believed in this team and he wouldn’t want us to lose that belief just because he can’t be here.
This video is very different than it would've been had you done it about two weeks ago. It still all feels surreal. Rest easy, Johnny hockey.
Why are you not on NHL network????? You know hockey better than ANY pundit on TV.
RIP Johnny and Matty. Such a senseless tragedy. Most deep condolences to the entire Gaudreau family and friends, teammates, and former teammates and just anyone who knew him.
He talked about how Brodie Brazil was laid off only a week ago by San Jose. Probably has more stability and control of his livelihood this way.
I hope cole and sean has a really good season. I understand what you get about the blue jackets being forgotten about. The blue jackets are the least talk about team in Columbus. Literally it took our star player passing for being heavily talked about.
Thank you for this Shannon. Very well done. I feel for all of Columbus' fans and hockey fans in general. Calgary showed their love and support and I cannot wait until Columbus comes here to play the Flames, there won't be a dry eye in the Saddledome. And yes, if you need emotional help, please tell someone, call, there are a lot of avenues you can take to get and feel better. Go Blue Jackets!!!!
Thank you Shannon - appreciate all you do for the hockey community.
As much as you thank for the support you get, you gave now huge support for everyone mourning the Gaudreau brothers and CBJ fans. Thank you.
The situation while not the exact same reminds me of how I felt with Vladdy Konstantinov. Johnny will always be a part of the Jackets just like Vladdy will always be a part of the Wings.
Really appreciate this video, giving the tragedy and those suffering the attention they need while starting to talk about the hockey side of things. I'm a pretty committed CBJ fan, but the hockey doesn't feel relevant right now. Just hoping the players, team and families can lean on their loved ones and manage as best as possible.
I’m not a Blue Jackets fan, nor am I a Flames fan. I only really saw Johnny Gaudreau play against my leafs. But his death really upset me. I did feel rather foolish for grieving him, especially considering the fact that I am not a fan of either of his teams. I still choke up thinking of him and Matty. Thank you for the validation that it’s ok to feel the way I do. I wish the Blue Jackets a year of success amidst all the tragedy. Rest in peace Johnny Hockey. Lots of love from a Leafs fan ❤
This is one of your best videos you've ever done Shannon. The last several minutes of it had me choked and gave me chills. Well done. All the best
All of us are honorary Blue Jackets fans this season.
I’m glad you are feeling better Shannon.
Thank you for this video, Shannon.
I think you handled this extremely well Shannon. Thank you.
This season i want to see Columbus vs Florida in the ECF
Great video
Been dreading this one.
RIP Johnny Hockey.
It's been over a week and it still feels surreal and felt like I haven't fully comprehended it yet. I feel like I'll be tuning into more CBJ games this year than any season prior
Thank you Shannon. Always a class act. Fifth Line loves your videos. First season since 2012 where I won’t have season tickets. Feel for the family (obviously) and fanbase/organization. Never even computed the Salary Floor ramifications.
Daily Face Off has JohnnyGaudreau as every position on the CBJ line combinations.
As a Detroit fan, I will be going to that stadium series game. And I will be cheering on Columbus, as well as Detroit during that game
Well handled Shannon. Very respectful but still providing us the information we've come to take for advantage from you.
Hope you're doing better.
Thank you! Thank you for your empathy and kind words. We here in Columbus appreciate it. We have always been the team no you tube or xm stations really speak of. We always watch your channel because you pay attention to us. Not only during our tragedies, but all the time. You are fair to all teams. We as fans appreciate it. It’s been hard to be a CBJ fan but we still love them and believe in them. Still dealing with Kivi’s tragic death and now Johnny and his brother. It is so very hard and you seem to understand. So again, thank you.
Tough one to make and very well presented. Thanks THG
Classy way to approach this video
Well done Shannon. I appreciate your heart and the way you presented this video. Totally heart broken for his family,friends and all hockey fans. So sorry to see this organization be hit with yet another blow. My condolences and prayers to the Gaudreau family and friends.
I agree with everything you said, Shannon. My wish is that another star player follows in Johnny's steps and voluntarily comes to Columbus.
This is so very sad for the Gaudreau family and hockey fans everywhere.
You've done really well with this THG. Thank you.
I can't imagine how difficult this video must have been to make. Beautifully done. Hockeytown is with you, Columbus.
I really appreciate the respect that you show to difficult situations. I hope that the CBJ can rally around this the way that the Cleveland Monsters rallied around the sickness and passing of their long-time equipment manage, Phil Simon. They won the Calder cup that year, largely through the leadership of Ryan Craig.
Rip johnny and matthew
i am a firm believer that humans can learn more from failures and tragedies than they ever do from successes and good times. good times are easy, hard times are an opportunity to find more within yourself. any death is painful. but those brothers' death was tragic. the best homage is to try to be better because you admired that person. and both seemed very admirable to me. 🙏
Absolute class act Shannon. As a Wings fan I’d like to extend my condolences to blue jackets fans. I will definitely be cheering for you guys this year.
My condolences to Johnny's and Matthew's families ,let them rest in peace...
Sure hope the Blue Jackets honour the spirit & memory of the Gaudreau brothers with a successful season. The Blue Jackets have never been a fave team for me - but I'll be cheering loudly for them this year. Like you said, I hope the players, the city, and the league rallies forward and find some success.
As a Hawks fan I’ll definitely be rooting for the Jackets this season! Definitely gonna be a season full of emotions for sure!!!
RIP Johnny.. we didn't have you that long in Columbus but we sure loved every minute of it.
Before the event last week, I was able to see this team finishing 5th-6th. With the Evason's introduction presser, he felt like Torts when we hired him and this could be a repeat of 2016-17 in which getting the players to buy in and get back where they were during the Torts years, or at least don't be a bottom 5 team. They have cap space to be really active, including able to deal out Kuraly and Provorov, to stock up and then be able to go big next off-season.
Now, I have zero clue. It is too late, and extremely difficult, to find a replacement which may be find a stop gap from close to end of training camp to after the first month, but it is not perfect. This season feels like it's going to be a mulligan in which any outcome will be fine. If the team just completely bottoms out, it will be acceptable for the time being in which they would be able to reload for next season. If somehow the team is able to rally around pull off a run, that would amazing. I'm just hoping that at the end season the players able to find the joy of playing again.
When I started getting more into hockey, I picked up the Blue Jackets as a second team because they were in the opposite conference and have been an underdog through basically all of their history. I was thrilled when Johnny Gaudreau signed in Columbus, not only because he was one of my favorite players, but because it meant more guys would follow suit and maybe they'd start making some real noise. Man.
Well done will be giving my support to Columbus unfortunately this has taken a significant toll on me it’s gonna take me along time to recover from this
No matter what…this season’s for #13…the player, the person…every win, every loss, every goal…do it all for Johnny this year boys. Thank you so much for what you do, Shannon.
This team is playoff bound or 8th in the metro with no in between. No one would blame them for 8th but everyone would want to see playoffs.
Still hard to believe Gaudreau is gone.
Thank you Shannon. RIP Gaudreau borthers.
Never followed the flames or Columbus but man being a small hockey player myself I looked up to and admired Johnny. Every time I step on the ice and realize that everyone around me is two heads taller and 30-50 pounds heavier I put myself in his shoes, then I play my heart out.
As a Sabres fan I'll be pulling for the Jackets, how can you not.. As many have expressed, I still can't believe he's gone.. Gonna be a tough season. RIP Gaudreau brothers 🙏🏻❤️
I believe that Columbus should get off to a good start next year given the circumstances, they need to rally on doing it for Johnny.
That was a great video. Thank you