The tribute provided the Flames an opportunity to honor Johnny, who made the All-Star team with both franchises during his career.

Calgary's goalie, Dan Vladar, secured a shutout with 16 saves, while Columbus's Elvis Merzlikins stopped 19 of 21 shots.

With their victory, Calgary extended their home win streak to six games, the longest since the 2021-22 season.

On December 3, 2024, the Calgary Flames honored former player Johnny Gaudreau prior to their game against the Columbus Blue Jackets, marking a poignant tribute to a beloved athlete.

During the tribute, the Saddledome crowd chanted 'Johnny' and 'Johnny Hockey' as the Flames took a late 2-0 lead in the game.

The Gaudreau family expressed their gratitude towards Calgary's fans, with Meredith Gaudreau stating that the city feels like a home away from home.

After the game, the Flames honored Johnny with an honorary first star of the game, a surprise for his father, Guy, who was assisted onto the ice to acknowledge the honor.

Looking ahead, the Blue Jackets will face the Edmonton Oilers on December 5, 2024, while the Flames will host the St. Louis Blues on the same day.

Gaudreau and his younger brother, Matthew, tragically lost their lives in a bicycle accident caused by a suspected drunk driver on August 29, 2024, just before their sister's wedding.

Known as 'Johnny Hockey', Gaudreau played nine seasons with the Flames before spending the last two seasons with Columbus, where he continued to make an impact.

As part of the tribute, the Gaudreau family unveiled the first of six benches made from repurposed hockey sticks, which will be placed around Calgary in memory of Johnny and Matthew.

In the game itself, Calgary played a disciplined match, committing only one penalty and maintaining offensive pressure, while Columbus struggled to generate shots.