Matthew Gaudreau is the younger brother of late NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and a former professional hockey player and coach whose impact is still felt across the hockey world. Here’s what you need to know.
1. Matthew Gaudreau Shared an Olympic Dream With Johnny
Matthew and his older brother Johnny grew up watching the Olympics and envisioning themselves wearing Team USA jerseys.
“It was their dream,” their mother, Jane Gaudreau, said of her sons.
Johnny was projected to make the 2026 U.S. Olympic roster before his passing. Their father, Guy Gaudreau, said USA Hockey informed the family that Johnny was on the projected team.
“He wanted to be on this team,” Guy said during the U.S. semifinal win in Milan. “And it would’ve been nice if he’d been here.”
Team USA honored the brothers with Johnny’s No. 13 jersey displayed in the locker room alongside Matthew’s No. 21.
2. He Played Professionally After Boston College
Like Johnny, Matthew played college hockey at Boston College. Afterward, he spent five seasons playing professionally in the AHL, ECHL, and in Sweden.
The brothers developed their skills at Hollydell Ice Arena in New Jersey under the guidance of their father, Guy. Despite their 5-foot-9 frames, they became known for elite skating and puck skills.
Vincent Malts, who later became a mental performance coach for the Edmonton Oilers, remembered seeing them at a young age.
“It was Johnny and Matty,” Malts said. “They created almost a community center at Hollydell for their friends.”
3. Matthew Gaudreau Returned Home to Coach Youth Hockey
After his professional career, Matthew focused on giving back to the local hockey community. He worked as an assistant coach for the Philadelphia Rebels and mentored young players in the area.
“Matt forged his own journey, and his own identity, coming back and working with the younger players,” DiNorcia said to USAHockey.com. “That family has done so much for youth hockey.”
Hollydell Ice Arena, later renamed one of its rinks Gaudreau Rink in honor of both brothers, ensures future players skate where they once trained.
“Their legacy is going to have tentacles and reverberate forever,” DiNorcia said.
4. He Was Known for Loyalty and Community Spirit
Those close to the Gaudreau family often spoke about their character as much as their talent.
Malts recalled how quickly the brothers stepped up in 2014 after local player Nick Egan died at 21.
“Right away he said he was in, what can I do, how can I help,” Malts said of Johnny, noting Matthew shared the same approach. “If anyone needed something — friends, family, teammates — boom, they were there.”
5. Matthew Gaudreau’s Death Devastated the Hockey Community
Matthew and Johnny died on August 29, 2024, after being struck by an SUV while riding bicycles near their New Jersey hometown on the eve of their sister Katie’s wedding.
Matthew’s wife, Madeline Gaudreau, who was pregnant with their first child at the time, shared an emotional tribute on Instagram.
“I have no words, I just miss you,” she wrote. “I will keep going for you and our son.”
She later added, “Best 14 years of my life. I will cherish those years and you for the rest of my life.”
Johnny Gaudreau’s Brother Matthew: Five Fast Facts You Need to Know