The Columbus Blue Jackets' home opener Tuesday was much like the first holiday without a loved one. The rituals were all familiar, the traditions locked in over more than two decades of NHL hockey at Nationwide Arena.

The Columbus Blue Jackets held a poignant ceremony to honor Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew, celebrating their legacy with heartfelt tributes during the home opener against the Florida Panthers.

On an emotional Tuesday night at Nationwide Arena, the Columbus Blue Jackets honored Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau ahead of their home-opener against the Florida Panthers. Both teams participated in heartfelt tributes to the late Blue Jackets star and his brother throughout the night.