Matthew Tkachuk is in a very bad place following Johnny Gaudreau's death

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Daniel Lucente
September 25, 2024 (4:56 PM)

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Matthew Tkachuk may have just won a Stanley Cup with the Florida Panthers, but he is in no mood to celebrate anymore, as he's truly missing his friend Johnny.

Matthew Tkachuk, fresh off winning the Stanley Cup and riding the high of his stardom in South Florida, was his usual lively self at the Baptist Health IcePlex on Tuesday. He playfully cross-checked his teammates, led the charge in drills, and relentlessly chewed his mouthguard. It was just another day for the Florida Panthers forward known for his constant energy and charisma both on and off the ice.

But beneath that familiar enthusiasm was the weight of a devastating loss. What should have been a summer of celebration turned somber for Matthew Tkachuk after receiving the tragic news on August 29th that his former teammate and close friend Johnny Gaudreau, along with his brother Matthew, had been killed in a horrific traffic accident in New Jersey. The brothers were struck by a driver attempting to pass an SUV while they were out biking near Philadelphia.

Matthew Tkachuk and Johnny Gaudreau had been unusually close, having spent six seasons together with the Calgary Flames. Two American dynamos played most of their careers in Western Canada, taking turns creating magic skating on the same line. Two summers ago, both left Calgary as Gaudreau signed with the Columbus Blue Jackets, while Tkachuk was dealt to the Florida Panthers. Their friendship never wavered, even when they went their separate ways professionally. Tkachuk and Gaudreau would mention to each other a million times how great it would be to reunite on the ice one day.

Matthew Tkachuk is still coming to grips with Gaudreau's passing, between an always-busy schedule and a driven will to lead the Panthers to another championship. The weight of the loss is immense to him, the memories of those times the two shared in Calgary rushing back. Gaudreau had been more than a linemate to Tkachuk, having taken him under his wing through his early years and teaching him how to be and develop as a player and person. The connection that they shared was irreplaceable, and the absence of Gaudreau is felt deeply.

For Matthew Tkachuk, no game may be as emotional as the season opener in Columbus on October 15. Tkachuk couldn't have asked for a better home opener for the Columbus Blue Jackets, who are hosting none other than his Florida Panthers. The Blue Jackets are bypassing the traditional activities and celebrations for an opening night that will double as a tribute to Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau. That's a reflective moment for many, particularly Tkachuk, who some way, somehow, will need to keep his emotions in check while leading his team into what should be a highly-anticipated season.

Even moving forward, Matthew Tkachuk is focused on what comes next for the Panthers, like back-to-back championships. Yet a piece of him will be with Johnny Gaudreau at all times, at least when it comes to international tournaments. They had one day dreamed of continuing to play together, and now that dream is gone. Yet Tkachuk will continue to make sure his friend is always a part of him on and off the ice, especially during those international tournaments. This will surely remain a source of strength as well as sadness on his journey ahead.

He has grief and ambition, so to speak, and he's bound to keep on chugging with his team while his heart is with his friend. His career story will always be related to Johnny Gaudreau, both on and off the ice. Tkachuk aspires to build a new story this season that will reflect how tight their bond is.