“Forever type of people”: Johnny Gaudreau’s wife Meredith praises ‘best’ Sean Monahan ahead of Blue Jackets 5-2 win

Meredith Gaudreau, wife of late hockey star Johnny Gaudreau, shared kind words about Sean Monahan before the Columbus Blue Jackets game against the Calgary Flames. Johnny and Sean were teammates in Calgary and were set to play together in Columbus. Johnny and his brother Matthew tragically died in an accident on August 29.

Sean Monahan honored Johnny, saying (via Sportsnet) :

“A huge reason I’m here [in Columbus] is because of John [Gaudreau]. I play for him, his wife, his kids, his family, and the guys in the room. At the same time, you are playing for yourself to get through a time like this. I try to enjoy it as much as I can.”

Meredith shared Sean’s statement on Instagram and wrote:

“Helping me with house chores, spending his free time with our kids, late nights watching TV together… Sean & Britt have always been the best. John idolized him. Family type of friends. Forever type of people.”

Johnny Gaudreau's wife Meredith shared on IG story

Calgary Flames goalie Dan Vladar also paid tribute by wearing a special mask. It featured Johnny Gaudreau’s portrait, white doves, and his number 13. Meredith thanked him, saying, “Thank U Vlady.”

Sportsnet tweeted Vladar's tribute and captioned it:

"Dan Vladar’s wearing a new mask honouring Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau as the Flames and Blue Jackets meet for the first time this season. ❤️"

The Blue Jackets game against the Flames at Nationwide Arena, Columbus was full of excitement for the Columbus fans. Blue Jackets controlled the game and secured a 5-2 win against Johnny's former team.

Johnny Gaudreau’s wife, Meredith appreciated Sean Monahan's gesture for her husband

Johnny Gaudreau’s wife, Meredith earlier shared a post on Instagram about Sean Monahan’s daily visits to Johnny’s locker. Monahan and Gaudreau were best friends before Johnny’s tragic passing in August.

Meredith thanked Monahan for being there for her and her family. Monahan talked about the memories linked to Johnny’s personal items in the locker.

"For me, it brings back good memories, because some of the stuff in there I wwas actually with him when he got it, or he's had for over 10 years. He's a guy who didn't change much. He never changed as a person, except when he had kids - then he became a great father." Monahan said per Hockey Forever.

Monahan often wishes he could still call or text Johnny Gaudreau. Monahan continues to keep Johnny’s memory alive by visiting his family and sitting next to Johnny’s empty locker with his #13 jersey in Nationwide Arena.