During the 2025 NHL Draft, Meredith Gaudreau announced the Columbus Blue Jackets’ first-round selection in honor of her late husband and Jackets forward, Johnny Gaudreau. Now, a video of their daughter Noa cheering for her mom is going viral—and it’s truly heartbreaking.
Last August, Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew were killed by a drunk driver while cycling in Oldmans Township, New Jersey. Matthew had played college hockey and in the AHL. Johnny, also known as “Johnny Hockey,” played for the Calgary Flames and the Columbus Blue Jackets, where he was a beloved teammate.
Meredith Gaudreau announce draft pick
In Johnny’s honor, the Columbus Blue Jackets had his wife Meredith Gaudreau announce their first-round pick at the 2025 NHL Draft. When she took the stage, the crowd chanted “Johnny Hockey,” but Meredith kept her composure and proudly made the announcement, according to Hockeyfeed.
Video going viral
Now, a video Meredith Gaudreau shared is going viral among hockey fans. The clip shows her and Johnny’s daughter, Noa Gaudreau, cheering for her mom as she watches her on live TV. Fans are loving the heartwarming moment.
“Awww, love to see this!” one person wrote.
“Pure sweetness! Love it,” another added.
“The best thing I’ll see on the internet all day,” a third fan commented.
You can watch the adorable video below.
READ MORE: Columbus Blue Jackets’ heartfelt gesture to Jane Gaudreau
