Detroit Red Wings’ Netminder Jack Campbell Joins NHL/NHLPA Player Support Program

Jack Campbell Takes Indefinite Leave from Red Wings

Detroit Red Wings’ goaltender Jack Campbell has taken a step back from his professional career to join the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program. The league and player association confirmed on Friday that Campbell will be absent from the Red Wings franchise for an indefinite period to receive the necessary care. His return to training sessions and matches will be determined by program coordinators.

Season Start with Grand Rapids Griffins

At the age of 32, Campbell was anticipated to commence the season with the Grand Rapids Griffins, an affiliate of the American Hockey League. The Detroit team secured his services for the league-minimum $775,000 following the Edmonton Oilers’ decision to buy out the remaining three seasons of his five-year, $25 million contract during the previous summer.

First Player to Enter The Program This Season

Campbell is the inaugural player this fall to publicly announce his participation in the program, following five players from the previous season. This figure equals the total number of participants over the previous three-year period. The program offers support for a range of issues, including substance abuse, mental health challenges, sleep disorders, and gambling addictions. It assures confidentiality for players and their families, revealing details only when a player’s availability for his team during the season is affected.

Campbell’s Journey in the NHL

Campbell’s career in the NHL has seen him play for five different teams. He kicked off his professional journey with the Dallas Stars as a first-round draft pick before moving onto the Los Angeles Kings, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Edmonton Oilers. He spent most of the previous season with the Bakersfield Condors in the AHL.

Returning Home to Detroit

For Campbell, a native of Port Huron, Michigan, joining the Red Wings marked a homecoming of sorts. His journey continues as he takes a step away from the ice to focus on his well-being, a decision that has garnered him respect and support from the hockey community.