Top prospect struggling with alcohol abuse opens up

In an incredible show of vulnerability and emotion rarely seen from professional athletes, Calgary Flames prospect Emile Poirier is opening up for the first time about his ongoing struggle with alcohol addiction.

The former 22nd overall selection of the Flames in the 2013 NHL Entry Draft was a star scorer coming out of junior hockey in the QMJHL and impressed a newly hired GM Brad Treliving with his skill during his first pro games with the AHL’s Abbotsford Heat. “He was the best player on both teams,” Treliving said. “He had two goals and hit five posts. I’m like, ‘We have a player here.’ From there, though . . . ” From there Poirier’s production decreased while his alcohol intake increased. He went from 42 points in 2014-15 to 29 points in 2015-16. Last season he managed just 17 points and was often a healthy scratch. 

Now, recently sober and in the best shape of his life, Poirier is eager to put the past behind him and earn a future in the NHL. “I’m healthy now. I want to work out, and I want to make this team. I want to fully recover and put my focus on hockey, and that’s what I’m going to do.”

It’s an inspiring story that has won over at least one member of Flames staff. The pride Treliving shows in speaking about Poirier is evident, “I’m really proud of him …  you really root for him. I do. I’m rooting for him.”