USA rallying around Gaudreaus at 4 Nations: 'They're with us in spirit'

Team USA is using the memory of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau as a point of inspiration leading up to the 4 Nations Face-Off.

The American squad invited Guy Gaudreau, Johnny and Matthew's father, to a team dinner Monday night as well as practice on Tuesday.

"Johnny and Matthew were a big part of USA Hockey and a tremendous loss. They're with us in spirit," general manager Bill Guerin told Sportsnet's Eric Engels. "I just think it was important that Guy was there. The coaches wanted him out for practice, and the players wanted him in the picture. He's an amazing guy, we love having him around."

Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau were struck by a car and killed while riding bikes in their native New Jersey this past August.

United States captain Auston Matthews revealed that Johnny Gaudreau's jersey is hanging in the dressing room.

Johnny won a gold medal for USA at the world juniors in 2013 and represented his country five times at the world championship. Matthew Gaudreau was teammates with USA defenseman Noah Hanifin at Boston College.

"I think just to have him here and have him to dinner last night, get him on the ice with the guys and the coaches, I think it's something special," Hanifin said of Guy's presence. "I know he appreciates it. It means a lot to him just because of how much he loves the game, he loves hockey, and yeah, we were really happy he was able to come and spend some time with us."

USA begins its tournament Thursday against Finland.