Avalanche's Samuel Girard Enters Player Assistance Program

"The National Hockey League and National Hockey League Players' Association announced today that Samuel Girard of the Colorado Avalanche will be unavailable to his Club for an indefinite period while he receives care from the Player Assistance Program of the NHLPA and NHL.

Under the terms of the joint program, Girard will continue to be paid while receiving treatment. He will return to the Club when cleared for on-ice competition by the program administrators."

"I have made a proactive decision to take care of my mental health, and will be entering treatment for severe anxiety and depression that has gone untreated for too long and led to alcohol abuse. Taking care of your mental health is of the utmost importance, and encourage everyone to speak up and seek help should you feel like you need it. I want to express my gratitude to my wife, family, friends, the cub, my teammates, and the fans for their patience, understanding, and continued support."