**NHL Goalie Seeks Help Through Player Assistance Program**
Detroit Red Wings netminder Jack Campbell has taken a step towards seeking support, entering the NHL’s player assistance program. The league and players’ union announced on Friday that Campbell will be taking an indefinite leave of absence from the team to receive care.
The 32-year-old goalie, who signed with the Red Wings for the league minimum of $775,000, was slated to start the season with the Grand Rapids Griffins in the American Hockey League. Prior to joining the Red Wings, Campbell had his five-year, $25 million contract with the Edmonton Oilers bought out.
Campbell becomes the first player to enter the program this fall, following in the footsteps of five players who sought help last season. The program provides confidential support for players struggling with a range of issues, including substance abuse, mental health, sleep disorders, and gambling addiction.
As a first-round draft pick of the Dallas Stars, Campbell has played for multiple NHL teams, including the Los Angeles Kings, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Edmonton Oilers. He spent most of last season with the AHL’s Bakersfield Condors. A native of Port Huron, Michigan, Campbell’s move to the Red Wings marked a homecoming of sorts.
The program ensures confidentiality for players and their families, with announcements only made when a player’s availability is affected during the season. Campbell will be eligible to return to practices and games once cleared by program administrators.
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