LeBron James has paid tribute to Johnny Gaudreau after the former NHL star was shocked to die in a bicycle accident on Thursday.
The NBA superstar posted his first steps on social media just 24 hours after Gaudreau – a winger for the Columbus Blue Jackets – and his brother Matthew made headlines after they were fatally struck by a suspected drunk driver while riding bicycles in their home state of New Jersey.
“Crazy man! I instantly get sad and depressed when I read the story,” James, 39, wrote on X.
“My thoughts and prayers go out to the Gaudreau family! May Johnny and Matthew fly high, guiding/guarding their family(s) and blessing them and blessings from the heavens above.”
Other notable athletes, people and institutions also honored Gaudreau, 31, on social media, including his two former pro teams: the Columbus Blue Jackets and the Calgary Flames.
LeBron James, 39, said on X on Friday that he was shocked to hear of Matthew Gaudreau’s death
Gaudreau – a winger for the Blue Jackets – is survived by his wife – Meredith – and their two children
Higgins is accused of being drunk when he collided with Gaudreau and his brother
The NHL star, nicknamed ‘Johnny Hockey’, played for the US in several international competitions
“It is with great sadness that we mourn the tragic passing of our friend Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew Gaudreau,” the Flames tweeted on X. “Our hearts are broken by this devastating loss. Johnny was and will always be a member of the family and loved by all of Calgary.”
Danielle Smith – Premier of Alberta (Canada) followed with a message of her own: ‘I am deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew Gaudreau. Johnny was an incredible talent who blessed Flames fans with so many iconic memories; but even more profound was his dedication and service to the community that left a lasting impact on so many.’
She added: ‘My thoughts are with the families and friends of Johnny and Matthew at this incredibly difficult time. May they rest in peace.’
The Blue Jackets, who he played for last season and represented at the NHL All-Star Game, shared a photo of their former player wearing their X colors, with the caption: “Johnny Gaudreau. August 13, 1993-August 29, 2024.”
Edmonton Oilers star Evander Kane also spoke out about Gaudreau’s death, tweeting: “Absolute shock and sadness to hear of the passing of Johnny and his brother Matthew. Our thoughts go out to Johnny’s wife, two young children and the rest of his entire family at this unimaginable time.
“So sad and another reminder of how precious life is. May God watch over his children and family.”
Gaudreau’s athletes, celebrities and former teams (including from the university) honored him at X
USA Hockey, where Gaudreau played internationally, also shared online: “Our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Jonny and Matthew Gaudreau, whose lives ended far too soon. Words cannot express the sadness the hockey community feels today.”
Dave Portnoy – CEO of Barstool Sports and a huge hockey fan – posted on x: ‘Surreal sad story. Reminder to never take a day for granted. Incredibly sad.’
Boston College, where “Johnny Hockey” played from 2011 to 2014 before turning pro, revealed on X: “The entire BC community is devastated by the tragic news. Johnny Gaudreau was not only one of the nicest @BC_MHockey players, but one of the best.
“Matthew was a gifted player and beloved by his teammates. Our prayers are with the Gaudreau family during this time of unimaginable loss.”
Gaudreau, born in Carneys Point, New Jersey, is survived by his wife, Meredith, and two children, Noa and Johnny.