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Hockey culture seems to be changing

The Colorado Avalanche are making a difference both on and off the ice.

In this instance, it sees the number of players taking care of themselves increase by entering the NHL Players Assistance Program. The Avs have had three players enter in the last two years, with several following suit.

The three for Colorado include Bowen Byram to help in his recovery from concussions, Sam Girard for anxiety and depression, and Valeri Nichushkin for personal reasons. Recent entries outside the Avalanche include the Columbus Blue Jackets’ Patrick Laine, Detroit Red Wings’ Jakub Vrana, and Florida Panthers’ Spencer Knight to name a few.