Sam Girard has returned to the team after spending time in the NHL/NHLPA Players Assistance Program.
After being away for about a month, Colorado Avalanche defenseman Samuel Girard has returned to the team.
It was announced that Girard entered the Player Assistance Program of the NHLPA and NHL on Nov. 24. He put out a statement through his agent's company that said, in part — he's taking care of his mental health as he's suffered from "severe anxiety and depression that has gone untreated for too long and led to alcohol abuse."
Girard's defensive partner, Bowen Byram, spoke to The Hockey News' Colleen Flynn about the importance of his return and how it will affect the team.
"Big boost for us, not only on the ice, but also in the locker room He's a great guy and great friend to a lot of guys in this room," Byram said. "We're all super excited that he's back. He went and did what he needed to do, and it takes a big man to do that so we're all very proud of him and just happy to have him back with us."
Head coach Jared Bednar said GM Chris MacFarland and team medical staff had checked in with Girard during his care.
"We got updates on how things were going. They went well. We're excited to have him back," Bednar said after morning skate. "Obviously big piece of our team and sooner we can get him up and ready to join our team the better off we're going to be."
The 25-year-old is considered the same as an injured player, Bednar said. He's considered healthy but not ready to play just yet. Bednar said the coaching staff will monitor his play and when the coaches and he both think he's ready to get back at it, he will.