Johnny Gaudreau’s Columbus teammates were given a few options for how to handle their emotions during the Blue Jackets’ home opener.

The only rules – play the game the way “Johnny Hockey” would and with him in mind.

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The Columbus Blue Jackets paid tribute to star winger Johnny Gaudreau ahead of the team's home opener against the Florida Panthers on Tuesday{ai:summary}<p>Johnny Gaudreau's Columbus Blue Jackets teammates were encouraged to express their emotions during the home opener, honoring him by playing as he would have. They were given the freedom to cry or laugh as they remembered the late player.</p><p>Gaudreau and his brother were tragically killed in a bicycle accident prior to their sister's wedding. #sports</p>

'An emotional night for the hockey world' as Blue Jackets pay tribute to Johnny Gaudreau in home opener

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