Unbelievably classy move by Leafs GM Brad Treliving in Gaudreau tragedy

The hockey world mourns the loss of Columbus Blue Jackets forward Johnny Gaudreau and his younger brother Matthew, who both tragically died earlier on Friday. The Gaudreaus were struck and killed by a suspected drunk driver while riding their bikes in Salem County, New Jersey, police said. Both brothers died from their injuries.

Amongst the many who shared moving messages and posts on Johnny Gaudreau is Toronto Maple Leafs general manager Brad Treliving, who was his general manager during his time with the Calgary Flames.

This is the classy publication by the Leafs’ GM, who shared it online moments after Toronto also posted about Gaudreau’s tragic passing.

“I am absolutely devastated by the news of Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew’s passing. John was a truly special player, dazzling on the ice with his incredible talent, but what made him truly special was the person he was off the ice. His thousand-watt smile and infectious personality were matched only by his love for his family, friends, and those close to him. He brought joy to everyone around him and to the many who never knew him but marvelled at his excellence on the ice.

“John was a beloved teammate and a friend to so many in the hockey community, and he will be deeply missed by all of us who had the privilege of knowing him. My heart goes out to the entire Gaudreau family – to his mom and dad, Jane and Guy; his sisters, Kristen and Katie; his loving wife, Meredith; his precious children, Noah and Johnny; and everyone affected by his unimaginable loss.

“Family was everything to John, and in his memory, please hug those close to you tighter and longer today and every day.”

Treliving spent eight seasons around Johnny as the general manager of the Calgary Flames before both left the organization. Johnny was loved by hockey fans and was known as “Johnny Hockey” following his days at Boston College.

His brother, Matthew, also played at Boston College and spent several years in the ECHL and AHL.

Treliving also donated to the GoFundMe page created to help the family of Matthew, who was expected his first child in December. He donated $1313, a wink to Gaudreau.

Former Flames president of hockey operations Brian Burke also made a moving statement on his former player’s death.

“My heart goes out to the Gaudreau family after the tragic loss of Johnny and Matthew. I was lucky enough to have Johnny with the Calgary Flames and with USA Hockey, and it cannot be overstated just what a joy it was for everyone involved to have Johnny Gaudreau on their team. First and foremost, Johnny was always the first to raise his hand to give back to the community. When we had any charity requests, we always knew he would say yes, without hesitation. His love of his family, friends, and alma mater was always apparent and was clearly the driving force in his life. What I will remember most was his happiness, enthusiasm, and kindness that radiated out through the locker room every day. There are few players in hockey history that matched his passion and love for the game of hockey. His talent on the ice was enhanced, not diminished, by the fact that he was having fun out there. The entire Gaudreau family is in our thoughts and prayers as they navigate this incredibly difficult time.”

Johnny Gaudreau is survived by his wife, Meredith, his two young children, Noa and Johnny, as well has his parents, Guy and Jane, and sisters Kristen and Katie.