It was not until very recently that the NHL witnessed one of its darkest times when the league and Columbus Blue Jackets lost their star player, Johnny Gaudreau. The ill-fated accident that claimed the lives of Johnny and his brother Matthew Gaudreau left a void beyond just the hockey fraternity. While the league and even national teams continue to consistently honor and pay tribute to the Gaudreau brothers’ memories and legacy, Johnny Gaudreau will consciously remain in the hearts of each and every life that he has touched in his journey through immeasurable odes.

One such ode to Johnny is by Elvis Merzlikins, the veteran goalie for the Jackets, who is the father of two babies now! On 16 March 2025, he welcomed his second one with a cute tribute—naming the little one after the late player! “Baby Jaxon John Merzlikins has arrived! ❤️,” he wrote in an Instagram post that featured the new baby and his new family. Indeed, a happy moment for the Merzlikins family, but one that comes with a bittersweet sense of loss, of a beloved teammate.

Amidst the joy of welcoming his second baby, Merzlikins expressed all his love for everyone who was with the family at that moment. While thanking the Riverside Hospital and the incredible NICU team for their care, he honored his better half—best friend in crime. After all, he praised her strength for bringing the child! And for the ones who offered unwavering support—his teammates, coaches, and the entire Jackets community — it wasn’t just about the celebrations but to be with their counterpart.

While everyone congratulated the family on the great news of baby Merzlikins, there was one such comment that resonated deeply with everyone. “Loveeee Himmmmm,” came from none other than the one who felt the purity, perhaps fully—Meredith Gaudreu! It was a special moment for the strong lady and a mother, who believes that her late husband’s legacy still lives on. Well, now through this little one! And, for a fact, this news didn’t take even a moment to send waves of emotion through the hockey community.

Fans couldn’t help but remember Johnny Gaudreau

“Not me over here crying over the fact that both of his boys have middle names of teammates that passed way too early. Congrats, Elvis and fam 💙,” one fan expressed their emotions while emphasizing the tribute, which was more than just a name. Perhaps they could resonate. It wasn’t just about the lost lives and but also how Merzlikins is trying to commemorate his brother in arms.

As soon as the post was shared, many joined to reflect their emotions and love. One of them wrote, “John for Johnny hockey 😢.” This one highlighted the meaning of the newborn’s middle name. While some of them, overwhelmed by emotions, simply posted, “John. Well done you guys.” Well, it wasn’t just a gesture from Merzlikins, it was a a nod to Johnny from his family too.

Then comes another one to build the connection between the past and present. This one couldn’t hold back their tears when they wrote, “Not me crying over Knox Matiss and Jaxon John.” They reflected on the significance of not one but both middle names of Merzlikins’ children! The grief shared, and the love expressed, were palpable when another comment read, “John 🥹❤️CONGRATS!!!” A pure joy yet the honor of late Johnny Hockey. Fans have truly won over by Merzlikins, who celebrated this beautiful moment with a lasting touch of the impact that his friend had on the entire community.