Samuel Girard returns to Avalanche after time in players’ assistance program

DENVER, CO – JANUARY 10: Samuel Girard (49) of the Colorado Avalanche skates across the blue line against the Florida Panthers during the second period at Ball Arena in Denver on Tuesday, January 10, 2023. (Photo by AAron Ontiveroz/The Denver Post)Samuel Girard has rejoined the Colorado Avalanche after spending nearly a month away from the team.

Girard participated in the team’s morning skate Thursday ahead of a game against the Ottawa Senators. He entered the NHL/NHLPA Players Assistance Program last month, which the league announced Nov. 24.

Avalanche coach Jared Bednar said Girard will not play against the Senators.

“We’ll treat it like any injury,” Bednar said. “He’s healthy now, 100%. Get…