Golden Knights defenseman Noah Hanifin, like much of the hockey community, is grappling with the tragic loss of his former teammate and friend, Johnny Gaudreau.
Gaudreau and his brother Matthew were killed in a tragic accident on August 29, 2024, when they were struck by a suspected drunk driver while cycling in Oldmans Township, New Jersey. Johnny was 31, and Matthew was 29.
“It’s something you just learn to handle with time,” said Hanifin, reflecting on the loss. “I knew Johnny and Matty so well. You never really understand why these things happen. All you can do is be there.”
Hanifin’s connection with Gaudreau began even before they were teammates with the Calgary Flames. They both attended Boston College, though Gaudreau played there from 2012-14, while Hanifin arrived a year later. Despite not playing together in college, their bond grew during their time with the Flames.
“They’re going to leave behind a special legacy in the hockey world and their community,” Hanifin said. “We were lucky to spend time with them and witness their impact on everyone they met.”
Hanifin joined the Flames in 2018 after being traded from the Carolina Hurricanes. He quickly realized how special Gaudreau was, both on and off the ice. He recalled how Gaudreau’s laid-back personality would shine through, whether his casual attitude at the rink or his dazzling playmaking skills on the ice.
“He had gifts that not many players have,” Hanifin said. “It was amazing to watch him play. It was a privilege.”
Off the ice, Hanifin cherished the time he spent living in the same apartment building as Gaudreau and their teammate Matthew Tkachuk. The three players formed a close bond, spending countless days together playing games and sharing stories.
Gaudreau’s life evolved after he married Meredith in 2021. They welcomed their first child, Noa, the following year, and their second, Johnny, was born earlier in 2024. Meredith recently announced during Johnny’s funeral that she is expecting their third child.
“Meredith is incredible,” Hanifin said. “We’ll be there for her. However, she needs us.”
The Golden Knights’ locker room also mourns Gaudreau’s loss, even though many only knew him from playing against him. Knights captain Mark Stone shared that his brother, Michael, played six seasons with Gaudreau in Calgary, and he always spoke highly of him.
“He brought a smile to everyone’s face daily,” said Stone. “We lost a great guy and a great person.”
For Hanifin, the best way to honor Gaudreau is to continue the traits that define him: being a good teammate and person.
“Looking back on my relationship with Johnny, I want to be more like him,” Hanifin said.