Carey Price reveals why he left the Canadiens, which involve substance use

Fans were elated on Friday to find out that goalie Carey Price was coming back with the Montreal Canadiens after a long absence as he stepped into the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program on Oct. 7. He left the program after the 30-day mark on Nov. 6.

While head coach Dominique Ducharme explained on Monday what it would take for Price to return in between the pipes, the goalie himself shared a statement on Tuesday on what has kept him away and what has been going with his mental health. He admis to dealing with substance use. He released it both in English and in French. 

This is his statement on Instagram:

"Over the last few years I have let myself get to a very dark place and I didn't have the tools to cope with that struggle.

"Last month I made the decision to enter a residential treatment facility for substance use. Things had reached a point that I realized I needed to prioritize my health for both myself and for my family. Asking for help when you need it is what we encourage our kids to do. And it was what I needed to do.

"I am working through years of neglecting my own mental health which will take some time to repair; all I can do is take it day by day. With that comes some uncertainty with when I will return to play.

"I appreciate all of the overwhelming support and well wishes. I please ask that the media and our hockey community continue to respect our privacy at this time. Your support and respect of this so far has been a critical piece to my recovery."

Carey

He will now begin a multi-step process before he returns to action.

Price put his entire team on his back through the postseason, leading the Canadiens to the Stanley Cup final, which ended in July with the Tampa Bay Lightning coming out champions. This was a lot to handle for the veteran goalie, who also dealt with injuries. GM Marc Bergevin, who was quite emotional when he made the announcement on Price attending the program, did say at the time that he believed Price will be back with the team this season.

It’s been a tough start to the season for the Habs. They have posted a 3-10-0 record and Jake Allen has been overwhelmed in net. While Price cannot provide the much-needed offense up front, he might be able to give the Canadiens to rack up some wins.

But for now, his well-being being tended to and his return in the club’s entourage is sure to inspire his teammates. Keep fighting, Price!