Matthew Gaudreau, the younger brother of NHL star Johnny Gaudreau, was a professional ice hockey player who had a promising career in both the ECHL and AHL leagues. He was known for his skill and vision on the ice, traits he shared with his older brother. Born in Carneys Point, New Jersey, Matthew developed his passion for hockey from a young age, influenced by his family’s strong hockey tradition.
Early Life and Education
Growing up in a hockey-centered family, Matthew was surrounded by the sport from the beginning. Like his older brother Johnny, Matthew attended Boston College, where they played together for a brief period. While at Boston College, Matthew honed his skills and proved to be an important asset to his team, much like Johnny before him. Matthew’s collegiate performance, while not as decorated as Johnny’s, still showcased his potential to transition into professional hockey.
Professional Career
After college, Matthew pursued a career in professional ice hockey, joining the ECHL and AHL, where he played for teams such as the Worcester Railers, Reading Royals, and Bridgeport Sound Tigers. Over the course of his career, Matthew played 127 games in the ECHL, amassing a total of 100 points (35 goals and 65 assists), showing his playmaking ability and consistency on the ice.
He also had stints in the American Hockey League (AHL), playing for Bridgeport and Stockton, though his time there was more limited compared to his ECHL career. Matthew was respected for his work ethic and his ability to contribute both offensively and defensively, helping his teams to many key victories throughout his career.
Family and Personal Life
Matthew was close to his family, particularly his brother Johnny Gaudreau and their bond extended beyond the rink. The two brothers shared a passion for hockey and often credited their family for their success. His father, Guy Gaudreau, was a major influence on their development, having coached them during their youth. Matthew’s bond with Johnny was well-known, and the two maintained a tight-knit relationship even as their careers progressed on different levels of the sport.
Matthew Gaudreau Cause of Death
In August 2024, Matthew Gaudreau tragically passed away in an accident at the age of 29. The loss deeply affected the hockey community, as well as his family, friends, and former teammates. Tributes poured in from across the hockey world, including from the NHL and his brother’s team, the Columbus Blue Jackets. The outpouring of support showed how beloved Matthew was not just for his skills on the ice but for his character off it as well.
Who hit Johnny and Matthew?
The man accused of Killing Johnny and Matthew his brother, is identified as Sean M. Higgins a 43 years old man who was allegedly driving while drunk and crashed into the pair as they were cycling in South Jersey.
Matthew Gaudreau Net Worth
At the time of his death, Matthew Gaudreau’s net worth was estimated to be between $1 million and $3 million. While not as financially successful as his brother Johnny, Matthew made a respectable living from his career in the ECHL and AHL, along with various endorsements.
Matthew Gaudreau Wikipedia summary
- Full Name: Matthew Gaudreau
- Birthdate: December 5, 1994
- Birthplace: Carneys Point, New Jersey, USA
- Profession: Professional Ice Hockey Player (former)
- Position: Left Wing
- Leagues: ECHL, AHL, NCAA
- Net Worth (estimate): $1 – $3 million
Conclusion
Matthew Gaudreau was a talented ice hockey player who made his mark in the ECHL and AHL, following in the footsteps of his older brother Johnny Gaudreau. Despite not reaching the same heights as Johnny in the NHL, Matthew’s career was filled with notable moments, strong performances, and the respect of his peers. His tragic passing in 2024 was a great loss to the hockey world, but his legacy will live on through the many lives he touched both on and off the ice.
