Blue Jackets players, GM struggle to make sense of tragedy following deaths of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau in New Jersey

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Just three weeks before training camp begins, the Columbus Blue Jackets are trying to make sense of the senseless tragedy that unfolded after All-Star forward Johnny Gaudreau and his younger brother Matthew were killed when they were hit by a suspected drunk driver while riding their bikes in their home state of New Jersey.

President of hockey operations and general manager Don Waddell and four of Johnny Gaudreau’s teammates spoke to reporters at Nationwide Arena on Wednesday to share their feelings about the 31-year-old ahead of the evening’s candlelight vigil, which will include 13 minutes and 21 seconds of silent remembrance in honor of Johnny and Matthew’s jersey numbers.

“While there’s a huge hole in our lineup, there’s an even bigger hole in our hearts,” Waddell said, acknowledging that questions remain about how the band will move forward. “Our immediate goal is to support the Gaudreau family and support each other as we continue to mourn the loss of Johnny and Matthew.”

Waddell said the team will rely on its leaders, including center and captain Boone Jenner.

Jenner said the Blue Jackets need to persevere and support each other as a collective.

“As a team, we will get through this together,” Jenner said. “We will grieve, cry, be vulnerable, and support each other every step of the way, but we will persevere because I know Johnny would want us to.”

Defenseman Erik Gudbranson said that while he struggled to connect with many of his teammates, Gaudreau’s unique way of driving him crazy helped them grow closer.

“You will continue to inspire me to be just like you,” Gudbranson said.

RELATED: Johnny Gaudreau put family first, never forgetting his South Jersey roots even as his NHL career blossomed

Gaudreau turned down a larger amount of money from the New Jersey Devils to sign a seven-year, $68.25 million contract with the Blue Jackets in 2022.

Defense attorney Zach Werenski highlighted Gaudreau’s decision to relocate and reside in Columbus.

“You brought so much joy and excitement to this city,” Werenski said. “I’ve never seen anything like it.”

RELATED: Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau’s Sister Speaks Out After Tragic Accident: ‘Best Big Brothers’

The Gaudreau brothers were riding their bikes on a road in Oldmans Township Thursday night when a man driving an SUV in the same direction tried to pass two other vehicles and struck them from behind around 8 p.m., according to New Jersey State Police. They died at the scene.

Police said the driver, 43-year-old Sean M. Higgins, was suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and has been charged with two counts of vehicular manslaughter, as well as dangerous driving, possession of an open alcohol container and consumption of alcohol in a motor vehicle.

Gudbranson concluded his speech with a message to those considering driving under the influence.

“If you’re thinking about driving after a few beers or a fun night out, please, please, please don’t do it,” Gudbranson said. “Find a way home.”

Speaking at the NHLPA’s annual rookie showcase outside Washington, D.C., association executive director Marty Walsh said the tragic situation has far-reaching implications for hockey as a whole.

“The death of Johnny and his brother has an impact on a lot of players around the league and obviously it has an impact on their alma mater, Boston College, and the people of Boston,” Walsh said. “It’s beautiful to see these tributes. We just have to continue to support the family as best we can.”