Johnny Gaudreau

Johnny Gaudreau is an American professional ice hockey winger currently playing for the Columbus Blue Jackets of the National Hockey League (NHL). Nicknamed "Johnny Hockey," he is renowned for his elite puck-handling skills, exceptional vision, and prolific scoring ability despite his smaller stature. A product of the Boston College program, he won the Hobey Baker Award as the top U.S. collegiate player in 2014 before embarking on a successful NHL career primarily with the Calgary Flames.

Early life

Born in Salem, New Jersey, he grew up in nearby Carneys Point Township and began playing hockey at a young age, heavily influenced by his father, Guy, a former college player. He starred for the Dubuque Fighting Saints in the United States Hockey League (USHL), where he was named the USHL Player of the Year and USHL Rookie of the Year in 2011. His outstanding junior career led to his selection by the Calgary Flames in the fourth round, 104th overall, of the 2011 NHL Entry Draft. He subsequently committed to play collegiate hockey for the Boston College Eagles under coach Jerry York.

Playing career

At Boston College, he enjoyed a decorated three-year tenure, leading the Hockey East conference in scoring each season and helping the Eagles win the 2012 NCAA Championship. After winning the Hobey Baker Award in 2014, he forwent his senior season to sign an entry-level contract with the Calgary Flames. He quickly became a star in the National Hockey League, recording 64 points in his first full season and finishing as a finalist for the Calder Memorial Trophy. His peak offensive season came in 2021–22 when he set career highs with 40 goals and 115 points, finishing second in league scoring and was named a finalist for the Hart Memorial Trophy. After eight seasons with the Flames, he entered unrestricted free agency in July 2022 and signed a seven-year contract with the Columbus Blue Jackets.

International play

He has represented the United States extensively in international competition. His junior career included a gold medal at the 2013 IIHF World Junior Championship, where he was named to the tournament All-Star Team. He made his senior debut at the 2014 IIHF World Championship, leading the tournament in scoring and helping Team USA to a bronze medal. He later competed in the 2016 World Cup of Hockey and has been selected to multiple IIHF World Championship rosters, including the 2022 tournament where he served as an alternate captain. His international accolades also include a bronze medal at the 2015 IIHF World Championship.

Personal life

He is married to Meredith Gaudreau, and the couple has children. His younger brother, Matthew, also played collegiate hockey at Boston College and had a brief professional career. Known for his quiet and humble demeanor off the ice, he maintains strong ties to his family and his roots in South Jersey. He and his wife are involved in various charitable endeavors, including support for children's hospitals and youth hockey programs in both Calgary and Columbus.

Career statistics

His professional regular season totals through the 2023–24 season include over 700 games played, accumulating more than 250 goals and 500 assists for over 750 points. His playoff statistics include appearances with the Calgary Flames in the 2015, 2017, 2019, and 2022 postseasons, with his most productive run coming in 2022 where he recorded 14 points in 12 games. His career accolades include multiple NHL All-Star Game selections and being named to the NHL Second All-Star Team in 2022.

Category:American ice hockey players Category:Columbus Blue Jackets players Category:Calgary Flames players Category:Boston College Eagles men's ice hockey players Category:Hobey Baker Award winners