Hockey Writer Apologizes for Inappropriate Comment Regarding Johnny Gaudreau’s Death

Hockey writer Frank Seravalli has issued an apology following backlash over comments made about the death of NHL star Johnny Gaudreau. The controversy stems from a column where Seravalli linked Gaudreau’s passing to the Columbus Blue Jackets‘ potential success in the NHL Draft Lottery.

In his annual season predictions, published on October 7, 2024, Seravalli suggested that the Columbus Blue Jackets would benefit from “a little help from Gaudreau,” implying that the late player’s presence from heaven would improve their odds in the 2025 Draft Lottery. The comment was perceived as insensitive, considering Gaudreau’s recent tragic death alongside his brother, Matthew, in a bicycle accident in New Jersey.

Gaudreau, who had signed a seven-year contract with the Blue Jackets in 2022, died on August 29 when both he and his younger brother were struck by a suspected drunk driver. The incident has heavily impacted the hockey community, including Gaudreau’s widow, Meredith Gaudreau, who expressed her support for her late husband’s team.

Following immediate criticism, Seravalli amended his column, changing the line to “with a little help from Gaudreau in heaven” before ultimately removing the reference altogether. Despite his retractions, the writer faced significant backlash on social media, with many calling his comments “callous and insensitive.”

“What I wrote and how my poor choice of words was received was not intended to create any hurt or anger,” Seravalli stated in his apology. “Especially as a member of the Philly hockey community, I’ve been absolutely gutted by John and Matty’s passing—like so many around the hockey world.” He continued, “This tragedy is a difficult topic we’re all grappling with, and what I wrote was never intended to add to that. Simply put, I should not have tied the two together. I am sorry and I promise to be better.”

Some social media users urged understanding, interpreting Seravalli’s comment as an attempt to honor Gaudreau’s legacy rather than diminish it. “I read it the same way everyone did but then was thinking no one would say something like that,” shared one commenter.

The Columbus Blue Jackets are scheduled to begin the 2024-25 NHL season on October 10 against the Minnesota Wild, with the team facing a poignant start without one of their star players.