Controversy Erupts: Nathan MacKinnon and the Colorado Avalanche Accused of Disrespecting Johnny Gaudreau
In what could be seen as a show of disrespect, the Colorado Avalanche did not play a Johnny Gaudreau tribute before their game against the Columbus Blue Jackets.
The passing of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau is still fresh in the minds of many in the hockey world after both brothers were tragically killed in a cycling accident at the end of August. It was a story that dominated headlines and shocked the entirety of the NHL and everyone involved. Many teams decided to come together to pay tribute to the Gaudreau Brothers, honoring them with preseason videos as well as tributes before starting their regular season game.
But one team neglected to make a tribute, that being the Colorado Avalanche. The team has received a lot of criticism from fans, believing it was the ultimate sign of disrespect and could have easily been a part of Colorado's pre-game events:
It's understandable why fans would be outraged, believing that Colorado feels above every other team and choose not to pay tribute to Gaudreau. It feels like a low blow to an already tragic story, however, there is another side to this. The emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion it takes to play in the NHL is unlike any other in professional sports, and Columbus already being shaken up by Gaudreau's passing does not need to be reminded of it 31 times:
Seeing both sides of the coin, fans deserve to feel a little upset at the Avalanche's impudence toward Gaudreau, seeing as other teams are doing it even during important moments, and feel this tragedy transcends hockey (and rightfully so). Columbus and their players also lost a brother, teammate, and close friend; many are still struggling with the loss even if they don't show it. It's hard to imagine reliving the death of a loved one over and over while trying to do your job to escape from that nightmare.
On the surface, Colorado neglecting to put a tribute for Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau is a sign of disrespect, but for the sake of the well-being of the players, coaches, and family; not reminding them of the tragedy is the ultimate sign of love and respect.
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