The sports world is paying tribute to Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau following their tragic death at the hands of a drunk driver Thursday night in New Jersey.
Mike Trout -- a South Jersey native like the brothers -- said he was devastated by the news of their passing ... and that his condolences were with his family.
Lebron James also commented on the situation ... saying, "Insane man! I instantly go so down and sad."
The hockey world is also remembering the brothers ... with Hendrik Lundqvist -- the former goalie of the New York Rangers -- describing the entire situation as "So Hard To Believe💔"
Edmonton Oilers forward Evander Kane posted his thoughts on X ... saying, "So unfortunate and another reminder on how precious life is. May God watch over his children and his family."
Longtime NHL player Ryan Whitney wrote, "I’m truly sick to my stomach. Life is so unfair and this hits on so many different levels."
TJ Oshie -- a forward on the Washington Capitals -- described the entire situation as "incredibly sad."
Fans of the Columbus Bluejackets have also been paying their respects to Johnny ... placing down outside the stadium since the news of his passing broke.
The flowers are starting to pour in at Nationwide Arena with a banner that says “In loving memory of Johnny Gaudreau”.
— Adam King (@AdamKing10TV) August 30, 2024
All of that below the banner of Johnny. As every fan passes by, no one talks about the goals, each shares the amazing person Johnny was. pic.twitter.com/lfXoIU7EZR
The Cincinnati Reds -- who are about two hours away from the Columbus Blue Jackets -- also took time to pay their respects to the brothers ... as they displayed their names on their scoreboards in a post.
We are heartbroken for our friends at the Blue Jackets with the tragic passing of Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew. We send our deepest condolences to the Gaudreau family, their friends, the NHL and the entire Columbus Blue Jackets organization. pic.twitter.com/iEAfusOLJD
— Cincinnati Reds (@Reds) August 30, 2024
Johnny was 31-years-old ... while his brother Matthew was 29-years-old
R.I.P.