The Maple Leafs, other NHL teams, and numerous NHL executives, past and present, have sent their condolences to the Gaudreau family.

Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving released a statement on the passing of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau on Friday morning.

"I am absolutely devastated by the news of Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew's passing. John was a truly special player, dazzling on the ice with his incredible talent, but what made him truly special was the person he was off the ice. His thousand-watt smile and infectious personality were matched only by his love for his family, friends, and those close to him. He brought joy to everyone around him and to the many who never knew him but marvelled at his excellence on the ice," Treliving wrote.

"John was a beloved teammate and a friend to so many in the hockey community, and he will be deeply missed by all of us who had the privilege of knowing him. My heart goes out to the entire Gaudreau family—to his mom and dad, Jane and Guy; his precious children, Noa and Johnny; and everyone affected by this unimaginable loss.

"Family was everything to John, and in his memory, please hug those close to you tighter and longer today and every day."

Johnny and Matthew sadly passed away on Thursday night after they were struck by an alleged drunk driver who was attempting to pass another vehicle, the New Jersey State Police told CBS News Philadelphia.

Treliving spent eight seasons around Johnny as the GM of the Calgary Flames with Gaudreau in the organization. Johnny was loved by hockey fans and was known as "Johnny Hockey" following his days at Boston College.

His brother, Matthew, also played at Boston College and spent several years in the ECHL and AHL. Johnny was 31 and Matthew was 29.

The Hockey News Toronto extends our most heartfelt condolences to the Gaudreau family and friends of both Johnny and Matthew.

Related

Maple Leafs Join Hockey Community in Mourning the Passing of Johnny Gaudreau and Brother Matthew

‘They Can Tell You That You're Going To Play One Position, And Then, Like In My Case, It Turns Out Not To Be The Case’: Former Maple Leafs Forward Alexander Barabanov Reflects on His Time in Toronto

Why the Marlies Hired Former Maple Leafs Player Steve Sullivan to be an Assistant Coach to John Gruden

Maple Leafs’ Auston Matthews and Edmonton Oilers Star Connor McDavid Hit the Ice Together in Munich Ahead of 2024-25 Season

News from THN.com

NHL Expansion: Kansas City, Cincinnati and Omaha Long Shots To Land a Team

NHL's Top Issues Facing the L.A. Kings: Byfield's Growth, Kuemper's Impact and GM's Risk

Screen Shots: Jets' Vintage Jersey Love, NHL Labor Uncertainty, And Bruins An Underdog Vs. Leafs?