Colorado Avalanche defenseman Samuel Girard will be sidelined indefinitely as he takes advantage of the National Hockey League and Players’ Association Player Assistance Program.
This was announced early Friday evening.
Two days earlier, Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar said his skater had left the team’s entourage for personal reasons. A member of Girard’s entourage told TVA Nouvelles that he made this decision due to a health problem.
“I have made the decision to address my mental health and will begin treatment for severe anxiety and depression that have gone untreated for too long and have led to alcohol abuse,” Girard said in a press release from his representation agency.
“It is very important to take care of your mental health. I encourage everyone to speak up and ask for help if there is ever a need. I would like to thank my wife, my family, my friends, the club, my teammates and the fans for their patience, understanding and constant support.
The Roberval native has had success recently, scoring a goal and two assists in his last two games. Girard has four points in 15 games so far in the 2023-24 season.
The second-round pick (47th overall) in the 2016 draft is playing his seventh season in the National League. He began his professional career with the Nashville Predators before moving to the Avalanche in November 2017.