“Don’t drive drunk.” Those are the straight-up words from The Kidd Chris Show’s co-host Sara Elyse after the gut-wrenching news of Johnny Gaudreau’s tragic death. Miami’s WR Tyreek Hill jumped in quick to back her up, reposting her message on X. The news hit like a ton of bricks, and Hill’s post was a wake-up call for everyone about the real dangers of drinking and driving.

Johnny Gaudreau, aka Johnny Hockey, and his younger brother Matthew were gone way too soon. They were biking in their New Jersey hometown right before their sister’s wedding when a suspected drunk driver, Sean M. Higgins, slammed into them. Johnny and Matthew, set to be groomsmen, never made it.

Higgins, who admitted to having five or six beers and even having an open container in his SUV, is facing some heavy charges now, including two counts of death by auto. Reckless driving’s on the list too, and authorities suspect he was definitely under the influence during the crash.

The hockey world’s been pouring out tributes for Johnny. He wasn’t just an 11-season NHL superstar with the Flames and the Blue Jackets; he was a solid guy, loved by teammates and fans. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman put it perfectly, calling Johnny “more than just a dazzling hockey player; he was a doting father and beloved husband, son, brother, and teammate.”

Losing Johnny Gaudreau is a massive loss for everyone who knew him. Tyreek Hill’s post is just the start—as everyone from the NFL and NHL paid their tributes. 

Outpouring of tributes from NFL and NHL honoring Johnny Gaudreau’s legacy 

Eagles’ QB Jalen Hurts took to X: “I’m deeply saddened by Johnny & Matthew Gaudreau passing. Johnny was a dedicated hockey player, Birds fan & cherished member of the Eagles faithful. I want to send my heartfelt condolences to the entire Gaudreau family & those impacted by this loss! #FlyJohnnyFly.” The Bert Bell Award-winner’s tweet nailed just how much Gaudreau meant to Philly’s sports community.

The former Patriots’ legend Rob Gronkowski also paid his tribute on IG with a short but heartfelt “RIP Johnny.” With the Gaudreau’s ties to Boston College, Gronk and many Pats fans felt this loss deeply. The Columbus Blue Jackets (Johnny’s team) released a statement after his sudden passing: “He brought a genuine love for hockey with him everywhere he played… The impact he had on our organization and our sport was profound.”  

And the Calgary Flames, where Johnny played for a good nine seasons, expressed their best wishes for the young talent: “He grew up here, not only as a superstar on the ice, but also a beloved member of our community. RIP.”

The love pouring in from across the NFL and NHL just goes to show how much Johnny Gaudreau was admired, reminding us all to hold our loved ones a little closer and appreciate every moment. And most importantly, to not drink and drive under any circumstances.