Golden Knights defenseman and Team USA player Noah Hanifin had a close friendship with the Gaudreau brothers. He was a teammate of Matthew’s at Boston College and skated alongside John for four seasons with the Calgary Flames. Having Guy Gaudreau around was commonplace during Hanifin’s time as Matthew’s classmate and John’s NHL teammate.

Johnny and Matthew were an important part of USA Hockey and a tremendous loss. They’re with us in spirit," Team USA G.M. Bill Guerin said.

Team USA will be playing for a lot more than national pride at the inaugural 4 Nations Face-Off. On Tuesday, the team revealed it has set aside a locker stall for the late Johnny Gaudreau, complete with a No. 13 jersey and flag to honor his legacy with the national team.

Both Matthew Tkachuk and Brady Tkachuk will play for Team USA in the 4 Nations Face-off, and Matthew spoke about his "Game 7" mentality.

There was Guy Gaudreau, front and centre at Team USA’s practice, continuing to provide inspiration and honouring the memories of his late sons, Johnny and Matthew, ahead of the 4 Nations Face-Off. The Americans are thrilled Gaudreau is at the event.

Quinn Hughes, who has missed four straight games for the Canucks with what is speculated to be a lower-body injury, will not play for the U.S. in the 4 Nations Face-Off, his team announced Sunday, and will be replaced by Jake Sanderson of the Senators.

Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew, died Aug. 29, 2024, when they were struck by an alleged drunk driver who was charged with two counts of death by auto while riding bicycles near their home in Salem County, New Jersey. Johnny was 31 years old. Matthew was 29.

Guy Gaudreau spoke softly, cracked a joke about how bad a hockey player he was and nodded his head with appreciation. On the lapel of his jacket was a pin honoring the memory of his sons, John and Matt.