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.

Late NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his late brother Matthew Gaudreau were honored by the Columbus Blue Jackets, Johnny Gaudreau's team, at their opening home game. The Blue Jackets welcomed Johnny Gaudreau's wife Meredith Gaudreau,

Johnny Gaudreau’s Columbus teammates were given a few options for how to handle their emotions during the Blue Jackets’ home opener. If you want to cry, cry.