Erik Gudbranson shares heartbreaking message about Johnny Gaudreau.

The tragic passing of both Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew Gaudreau this week has devastated the Gaudreau family and the hockey community as whole, but while Johnny and Matthew may be gone, the mark that they left on those around them will live on long after they've passed on.

On Friday, Johnny's long time friend and teammate Erik Gudbranson took to social media to share some words about the friend he has lost so suddenly and tragically, expressing how difficult it was for him to put into words how much this loss was impacting him.

"I’m heartbroken. This hurts so much to post. Going to miss all of it. 3am hotel room chats, picking you up for every game day, will never forget how frustratingly stubborn you are, sharing the best hugs and most of all your smile that would light up every room. I miss you. I miss Matty and my heart breaks for Mere, the kids and your family. I hope you and Matty have found a comfy spot up there and are having a couple giggles with a huge plate of pasta. I love you buddy.

"Please, please, please. Do not drink and drive."

Gudbranson shared the message via his Instagram account and included with the message were several photos highlighting the long standing and loving friendship that the two men had for one another. Unfortunately, due to an alleged drunk driver, those photos showcase the kind of moments that Gudbranson will never get to experience with his friend again.

By all accounts Johnny Gaudreau was an even better person off than ice than he was a player on the ice, and Gudbranson's outpouring of love for Johnny, Matthew, Johnny's wife Meredith and the rest of the Gaudreau family provides just one more example of what a great person we have lost in this tragedy.