Avalanche defenceman returns to team after stint in Players Assistance Program
There was a very familiar face on the ice for Colorado Avalanche practice on Thursday as they prepare for tonight's game against the Eastern Conference bottom dwellers, the Ottawa Senators, which is set to be their second-last contest prior to the Christmas break.
After spending the last month in the NHL's Player Assistance Program for mental health issues, Colorado Avalanche defenceman Samuel Girard returned to the team on Thursday.
"Avs Sam Girard is on the ice with the team this morning for the first time since leaving after 15 games to enter the NHL's Player Assistance program.
In a statement at that time, he said he needed help with some mental health issues, depression and severe anxiety."
In a statement at that time, he said he needed help with some mental health issues, depression and severe anxiety."
The 25-year-old has appeared in 15 games with the Avalanche this season, putting up four points (one goal, three assists), no penalty minutes and is a minus-seven.
Girard likely won't suit up for the Avalanche for at least a couple of games, as he'll want to get a few practices under his belt before seeing any action, but it's great to see him return to Colorado and hopefully he's in a much better place now than he was a month ago.
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