“All I wanted was to be a Calgary Flame. I felt that I owed it to the organization who took a chance on a five-six, 130-pound forward from the USHL,” Johnny Gaudreau expressed while writing a letter to the franchise in 2011. It was the year when the Calgary Flames drafted him. Johnny Hockey’s remarkable NHL journey started with the Flames when he quickly topped the league with his electrifying talents—the dazzling puck-handling or, let’s say, the speed. The NHL got its superior player when Gaudreau signed in 2014, instantly capturing hearts and headlines and becoming the most beloved forward.

But it all came to a heartbreaking halt in 2024. He and his brother, Matthew Gaudreau, tragically lost their lives in a cycling accident. The NHL didn’t just mourn the devastating loss of great talent. But it bid farewell to two stars whose legacies were only beginning to reach their full potential.

And for the Gaudreau family? An unimaginable loss of two sons, fathers, and husbands. As meaningful as the tributes, honors, and jerseys raised to the rafters are, they can never truly fill the silence left behind. Especially for Meredith Gaudreau, wife of the late Calgary star, who continues to navigate life through an irreplaceable void.

Once again, a heartfelt tribute came from Hockeyforever on Instagram. This time, it featured Sean Monahan alongside Johnny Gaudreau—captured in photos that reflected their inseparable bond in Calgary Flames jerseys. They’re smiling, side by side, while the haunting melody of ‘Take Me Back to the Night We Met‘ plays in the background. The post served as a reminder to fans of the unbreakable connection they shared.

Meredith underscored the sentiment by resharing the tribute with a simple, powerful caption: “Even better off the ice too.” A tender nod to the deep love—and legacy—they left behind.

And the caption? It beautifully encapsulated their dynamic synergy: “Johnny and Monny were electric ⚡️💙.” The close friends were the perfect duo—both Gaudreau and Monahan were the heart of the Flames’ offense, consistently delivering exhilarating performances. Fans were always captivated by the glory they created on the ice, especially when they did it together.

Remember that standout moment during the 2014–15 season? When Gaudreau netted a game-tying goal in the dying seconds—with Monahan—against the Anaheim Ducks? That goal was pivotal, a defining example of their collective impact on the team’s success.

But those moments on the ice together didn’t last forever. After all, they weren’t just teammates—they were the heartbeat of Calgary. “I still haven’t gotten over it. I don’t think I ever will,” Sean Monahan said quietly, eyes fixed on the dressing room floor. His voice was heavy, as though he was still waiting for Johnny to walk through the door with that familiar grin.

But with the tragic accident… It’s all a memory now.

Calgary became Johnny Gaudreau’s ultimate hockey place!

But Gaudreau’s legacy with the Flames still remains fresh! And it wasn’t only the stats or numbers that remained bold but the hustle for the hometown pride. From the moment he stepped onto the ice, he was a fan favorite. And in no time he achieved his 500-game milestone in 2021. Gaudreau had a history altogether with the Flames history! And not to forget that he has led the team in points since 2013-14—470 points and 139 power-play points. After all, he wasn’t just playing games but creating the games for Calgary.

“He is Forever a Flame, and I’m so proud of that,” Meredith spoke while delivering a speech for the Flames. This single line expresses many inexpressible emotions. Because for her, it wasn’t just about his on-ice success. But his husband’s journey from his first development camp in 2011 to a man who made Calgary feel like home! “And when I went up to Calgary for development camps, I saw how deep a connection the people had to their hockey team. Even just for games made up of prospects, we’d get so many fans at the rink,” Gaudreau recalled.

As for the Calgary Flames and the hockey world, they will forever remember a star of their own kind. Despite his shortened life, he felt a painful but proud legacy lived on. And Meredith’s words were the balm for his career, which made him what he’s known today! Because for Gaudreau- “This city is awesome, I thought to myself. This is a hockey city.”