Johnny Gaudreau's #13 Jersey: Team USA's 26th Man in 2026 Olympic Gold Victory ❤️

Johnny Gaudreau, forever known as Johnny Hockey, was more than a star—he was family to Team USA. Though tragedy took him in August 2024, his spirit carried the U.S. men's hockey team through the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan. His No. 13 jersey hung in the locker room the entire tournament, making him their unofficial 26th man, their inspiration, and their missing piece.

Johnny's #13 jersey hung proudly in the Team USA locker room throughout the 2026 Olympics – a constant reminder of his presence ❤️

USA Hockey had projected Johnny on the roster for these Games. Instead, his legacy fueled every shift as Team USA defeated Canada 2-1 in overtime to claim their first men's hockey gold since 1980. After Jack Hughes' golden goal (assisted by Zach Werenski), the celebration turned deeply emotional.

Players' Heartfelt Words After the Win

Zach Werenski (assisted the golden goal): "It meant everything. This is something John would have been at. To see his family here, his kids on the ice — we talked about playing for him, making him proud."

Auston Matthews (captain): "He's with us here in spirit for the whole tournament. We're obviously thinking of him."

J.T. Miller: "He obviously would have been on this team — and been a huge part of it. He deserved better."

Dylan Larkin: "This is for the guys who wore this jersey before us. Johnny especially, Matty his brother."

Matthew Tkachuk (carried the jersey on ice): "Johnny had an impact on a lot of guys in this locker room. It's special to see his family here."

Auston Matthews, Zach Werenski, and Matthew Tkachuk parade Johnny's jersey around the ice – an unforgettable tribute

Johnny's father, Guy Gaudreau, shared that USA Hockey confirmed Johnny was on the projected roster. He should have been there. Instead, his children—Noa and Johnny Jr.—joined the team on the ice for the medal ceremony and photo, surrounded by gold medals and love. America wept with pride and sorrow.

Noa Gaudreau held by a Team USA star – Johnny's kids at the heart of the golden moment ❤️

The full Team USA squad honors #13 in the victory huddle – legacy lives on forever

Johnny Gaudreau's #13 wasn't just fabric—it was motivation, memory, and unbreakable spirit. Team USA won gold, but they played for something bigger. #JohnnyHockey #13Forever #TeamUSA #OlympicGold #InOurHearts