It isn't often that you see members of bitter on-ice rivals offer support for the other, but that's what we're seeing right now.
For those of you who may be unaware, Montreal Canadiens goaltender Carey Price has taken a leave of absence, and will be entering the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program.
Coach Dominique Ducharme said Wednesday that Price, who missed training camp while continuing his recovery from July surgery for a torn meniscus, was "not doing well right now."
Among those sending their well wishes to Price include Toronto Maple Leafs captain John Tavares, who said that Price's decision to enlist assistance wasn't a sign of weakness, but rather of strength.
“No doubt there is more awareness, not feeling like you have to keep a lot of things bothering you inside,” the Leafs captain said. “There are resources and as players (it helps) hearing from one another and just recognizing those things. The more dedicated you are, the better you are at seeing (symptoms) among your peers and helping them out."
“It’s not a sign of weakness, it’s a sign of strength to acknowledge what's going on and get help that's needed," he continued. "As great and special as this is, we know how important family is.”
Meanwhile, the reigning Rocket Richard Trophy winner in Auston Matthews also offered his well wishes, calling Price "an amazing goalie":
"He’s an amazing goalie, great for the game and whatever he’s going through, we wish him the best," Matthews said.
Price, who will be entering his 15th season in the NHL, is in the midst of an eight-year, $84 million contract. He's a former Hart Trophy winner as the NHL's Most Valuable Player during the 2014-15 season, as well as a two-time Vezina Trophy winner as the NHL's top goaltender.
