This past offseason was one to remember for hockey fans. Numerous star players found new homes, but nobody's free agency was nitpicked quite like Johnny Gaudreau's and his choice to ultimately sign with the Columbus Blue Jackets.
When Gaudreau put the pen to paper and inked his 7-year, $68,250,000 contract with Columbus, many around the league were left questioning his decision. He had been linked to many other clubs, including the Philadelphia Flyers who were presumed to be the favorite to land the superstar. Gaudreau's Boston College teammate Kevin Hayes was interviewed at the all-star weekend and had some interesting comments regarding the situation.
According to Hayes, both he and Gaudreau thought that Johnny Hockey would be wearing a Flyers jersey this season, reuniting the pair. Hayes pointed to salary cap issues and injuries as a reason for the signing not happening like everyone originally thought. Hayes stated, "when the money had to be laid on the table, only a few teams were able to do it."
While its highly unlikely both players will play together in the league, there is a chance for a reunion for Hayes and Gaudreau during the all-star game. Hopefully they play together on the ice and the two friends will tear it up, showing management what they missed out on.