Blue Jackets leadership group honors Gaudreau

The Columbus Blue Jackets leadership group spoke to the media on Wednesday for the first time since the tragic deaths of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau.

With heavy hearts, they offered condolences to the Gaudreau family and paid tribute to Johnny with stories and memories. While we only shared excerpts of the press conference below, it can be watched in its entirety here.

Additionally, candlelight vigils will be held Wednesday night in Columbus and Calgary.

President of hockey operations and general manager Don Waddell

"My personal experience with Johnny is through USA Hockey. Between world juniors and playing on multiple national teams, Johnny was always very proud to put on that USA Hockey jersey. He was obviously an exceptional player, one of the best in the National Hockey League. He played the game with great joy, which was apparent to everyone that ever saw him. I witnessed it firsthand many times from the opposing team and was very much looking forward to being on the same team with him here in Columbus."

He added, "While there is a huge hole in our lineup, there is an even larger one in our hearts."

Captain Boone Jenner

"He played with such joy and passion, dominating at every level he went despite the odds stacked against him due to his size. But we'll deeply miss the way that he carried that same joy off the ice - whether it was at the arena or at home with his family. A joy I was so lucky to have witnessed. John was a close friend, someone I felt I had known for a lifetime. His jokes and banter were always a consistent presence, whether we were in the locker room, on the bus, on a plane, or in a hotel room. John was truly one of a kind. One of the many things I'll miss is seeing people's reaction to his pre-game meal routine for the first time: A mountain of sauce-free pasta topped with butter, paired with a Coke."

Alternate captain Erik Gudbranson

"You were an amazing father. I'll forever remember you complaining about a sore back after spending the night in Noa's (daughter) crib. And the pride you carried the day you brought Johnny (son) into the room for the first time. The love you shared with Meredith (wife) was a sight to behold. You were truly a family man, and you will continue to inspire me to be just like you."

He added, "One final point to everyone: If you think about driving after a few beers or a fun night, please, please, please do not."

Alternate captain Zach Werenski

"There's so many things I'm going to miss about John, starting with that huge plate of pasta with the Coke before games. I'm going to miss watching him be an amazing dad. I'm going to miss being in the family room after games when he would walk in and Noa would run over to him yelling for her dad and putting her arms out for a hug."

Alternate captain Sean Kuraly

"To say John will be missed doesn't completely capture it. May you and your brother Matt rest peacefully."