Fans at the Peacock Theater chanted “Johnny! Johnny!” in honor of the late player nicknamed “Johnny Hockey” and cheered Meredith as she spoke.

Columbus Blue Jackets general manager Don Waddell was thwarted in his trade efforts at the NHL Draft. So, he drafted. And he said that was fine.

Meredith Gaudreau, the widow of the late Johnny Gaudreau, announced Columbus' pick, Jackson Smith, on Friday night, receiving a standing ovation from fans. Gaudreau fought back tears as she thanked the hockey community for its support over the last year. She returned later in the night to announce Columbus' No. 20 pick, too.