USA Salutes Gaudreau Family as Olympic Hockey Gold Is Won
In Milan, Team USA defeated Canada 2-1 in overtime to win its first Olympic men’s hockey gold in 46 years. In a poignant moment before the final, captains Zach Werenski and Auston Matthews arranged for a team photo with the late Johnny Gaudreau and his family on the ice, honoring Johnny and his brother Matty, who were killed in 2024. Noa Gaudreau and Johnny Gaudreau Jr. joined the celebration, symbolizing the players’ belief that Johnny’s presence steadied and inspired the team throughout the tournament. Teammates and family members spoke about the enduring impact Johnny and Matty had on the squad, with jersey tributes and the moment on the ice underscoring the honor of the win.