An unfortunate turn of events for former Oilers goalie Jack Campbell
The former Edmonton Oilers netminder Jack Campbell is to receive care from the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program.
It's fair to say NHL players, as with professional athletes in general, receive more than their fair share of criticism, on many occasions spilling over into irrational hatred. At the end of the day, they are still human beings just like the rest of us, undeserving of such vitriol no matter how poorly they've played or how well-paid they are.
This comes to mind when considering Jack Campbell, who failed to live up to expectations after being signed to a five-year, $25 million contract by the Edmonton Oilers. He did go 22-13-4 in 39 NHL starts for the team, but was bought out after just two seasons of his deal, as he produced a .886 save percentage and 3.53 Goals Against Average in 41 overall appearances for the Oilers.
As you'd expect, there was a lot of negativity surrounding Campbell during his time in Edmonton and it certainly upset him, with him previously admitting he's not the most confident of people as it is. Now though, a turn of events has once again put everything into perspective, to bring home the reality that ultimately, this is just a game.
Campbell to enter player assistance program
As per NHL public relations, Campbell is to receive care from the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program. This means he will be unavailable for an indefinite period to the Detroit Red Wings, who signed him to a one-year, $775,000 deal at the beginning of free agency this year.
NHL public relations go on to note that under the terms of the joint program, Campbell will return to the Red Wings after he is cleared for on-ice competition by the program administrators. He had played in one preseason game for the club prior to entering the program, saving 20 of 22 shots in a split squad game versus the Buffalo Sabres.
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As you'd expect and should be the case, details of what the 32-year-old is dealing with, are unavailable. All we will do is add our voice to the many others, in wishing him all the best in making a full recovery and going on to live a good life.
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