22 people who will define the 2021-22 NHL season

CAREY PRICE IS known for his unflappability, for his poise under the stormiest conditions, and for a heart that ticks like a metronome.

But just because the future Hall of Famer, gold medallist and recent Stanley Cup finalist looks impenetrable under the brightest of lights doesn’t mean he’s not human like the rest of us.

For Price, his most stellar playoff run led to a surprise availability in the Seattle expansion draft led to trepidatious training camp, as concerns over the goaltender’s physical health had Montreal worried about his readiness.

But it’s Price’s mental health now of chief concern. Price enters the Player Assistance Program — for unspecified reasons and with his wife’s encouragement — and won’t be seen for at least the first month of the season. Maybe longer.

Sources say Price was set to be picked, again, as Team Canada’s backbone in Beijing. But life trumps hockey, and the story of Carey Price this year should supersede the story of the Canadiens or Canada’s crease. 

“No matter what is on the line,” Price’s wife, Angela, wrote on Instagram, “we hope we can communicate the importance of putting your mental health first not just by saying it, but by showing up and doing the work to get better.”

With someone as revered as Price admitting he needs help, the goalie will be saving others from the stigma.

22 people who will define the 2021-22 NHL season
Source: Healthy Lifestyle