Samuel Girard of the Colorado Avalanche has officially entered the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance program. “Personal reasons” prompted the defenseman of the Colorado Avalanche to leave the team after playing in Dallas on Nov. 18.
A post made by Tony Girard, Samuel’s father
Later in the afternoon, the league formally announced that he had entered the assistance program. Girard added, through his agent, that he was seeking treatment for alcoholism stemming from depression and anxiety. The defenseman will still be paid, and if he stays away long enough, Colorado can put him on long-term injured reserve. In 15 games with the Avalanche this season, Girard has one goal and three assists.
#Avs Samuel Girard has entered the NHL's Player Assistance Program #Avs #GoAvsGo @TheRinkColorado pic.twitter.com/uRHy7yppUr
— Brennan Vogt (@brennan_vogt) November 24, 2023
A statement from CAA Hockey client Sam Girard. pic.twitter.com/IE4hlAG0ZI
— CAA Hockey (@CAAHockey) November 24, 2023
Avs coach Jared Bednar on defenseman Samuel Girard pic.twitter.com/BTamzfjSoi
— Michael Russo (@RussoHockey) November 25, 2023