NHL fans demand the league to rename iconic award after Johnny Gaudreau

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Axel Williams
September 1, 2024 (10:30)

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Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew tragically passed away on Thursday after a drunk driver swerved into them as they were riding bicycles.

Sean Higgins is facing 20 years in prison, and while many are hoping for justice, nothing will bring back the lives that were lost way too soon. Having said that, NHL fans are doing their best to honor the legacy of the Gaudreaus and everything the two brothers stood for.

In recent days, many have called for the National Hockey League to change the name of one of its awards after Johnny Gaudreau. The award in question just so happens to be the Lady Byng, which Gaudreau won a few years ago. It is an award that typically goes to players who exhibit sportsmanship and barely take any penalties.

Overall, the Lady Byng Award is turning 100 years old this season. As J Fresh Hockey on X argues, the conclusion of this upcoming season would be the perfect time to change the name to the Johnny Gaudreau Sportsmanship Award. Whether or not the NHL makes that leap is anyone's guess right now. However, it would certainly be fitting for a player like Johnny Hockey.

Do you believe the league should rename the Lady Byng trophy after Johnny Gaudreau? Let us know in the poll down below and stay tuned to Hockey Unplugged for the latest news and updates from around the hockey world.