The Columbus Blue Jackets have just called a media briefing.

Following the tragic death of their star forward Johnny Gaudreau, General Manager Don Waddell has just announced that the entire team will travel to attend the Gaudreau brothers’ funeral.

All Blue Jackets players and staff will attend Johnny Gaudreau’s funeral

This includes Jackets players who are currently in Europe and scattered around the world.

“General Manager Don Waddell stated that the entire team will attend the Gaudreau brothers’ funeral.

At the moment, memorial plans are being finalized by the Gaudreau family, according to the club.”

– Via journalist Aaron Portzline

In the past few hours, the Columbus organization called the media, and it was an extremely emotional day for many, as some players publicly commented on this tragedy for the first time.

“General Manager Don Waddell and players Boone Jenner, Erik Gudbranson, Sean Kuraly, and Zach Werenski will make statements to the media.”

– Via journalist Aaron Portzline

Waddell, moreover, had the right words.

“While there’s a huge hole in our lineup, there’s an even bigger one in our hearts.”

– Don Waddell

The full report can be found here. It’s obviously very difficult to read, as it’s clear that emotions are still very raw, and understandably so.

Speaking of tributes for Johnny Hockey, let’s remember that Cole Caufield of the Montreal Canadiens changed his number last night in honor of Gaudreau.