Connor Ingram, the goaltender for the Utah Hockey Club, has recently entered the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program, announced on Sunday, March 9, 2025. This decision follows the passing of his mother due to breast cancer, which has deeply affected him since her loss earlier this December.
After last playing on February 22, 2025, and with his continued struggles, Connor expressed the need to prioritize his health. He shared on social media, “At this point in my life, I need to put my health first and (to) take the proper time I need away to come back at 100%.” This testimony highlights the emotional weight carried by many athletes, especially when confronted with grief and loss.
The NHL/NHLPA player assistance program is not solely associated with substance abuse issues, as commonly perceived. Connor emphasized this point, stating, “Though many view the program as a resource for substance abuse, I want to recognize all they do. I am once again privileged to have access to their network of world-class health professionals to hopefully avoid long-term negative effects of putting your health second.” This statement sheds light on the breadth of support offered by the program, which includes mental health resources, counseling, and medical care for various concerns.
At 27 years old, Connor has established himself on the ice, sporting an overall record this season of 9 wins, 8 losses, and 4 overtime losses, with a 3.27 goals-against average and .882 save percentage across 22 games. His performance was solid prior to entering the program, and fans await updates about his future with the team.
Earlier this season, following another leave of absence due to his mother’s deterioration, Connor's return to form proved challenging. His experience within this assistance program is not unprecedented; he previously participated during his time with the Nashville Predators to address undiagnosed obsessive-compulsive disorder, and he emerged from it, eventually winning the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy last season, awarded to players who exemplify perseverance and dedication.
Sharing his struggles openly has been important not just for Connor but for many players who have faced personal and mental health challenges under the intense pressure of professional sports. Each player’s story adds to the narrative of resilience amid adversity, extending beyond the ice and impacting their lives off the rink.
Shortly after Connor's announcement, the Utah Hockey Club made another roster move, recalling Jaxson Stauber from the Tucson Roadrunners of the American Hockey League (AHL) to fill the goaltending position. Stauber, 25, had been consistent this season with 2 wins and 1 loss alongside 1 shutout performance; boasting excellent stats with 2.23 goals-against average and .925 save percentage over four games.
This recruitment serves as both precaution and preparation as Connor's return remains uncertain. The Utah Hockey Club still has 19 games left this season, and with Connor's recovery timeline undetermined, players are preparing to adapt swiftly to maintain competitive standing.
Players entering the assistance program signals the NHL's commitment to prioritizing mental health, highlighting the industry’s conscious shift toward acknowledging the multifaceted pressure athletes face. Connor is among the second group of players to be publicly acknowledged under this program this season, with Detroit’s Jack Campbell also entering earlier. It reveals both the strain and stigma still present even as more players seek the help necessary for recovery, emphasizing the importance of support systems.
Social media outlets following Connor are filled with messages of encouragement, as fans rally behind him during this significant period of adjustment. By taking this step, he not only addresses his health but also influences others who might struggle silently, reinforcing the message: it’s okay to seek help.
For fans and fellow players watching, Connor’s brave acknowledgement and subsequent path to recovery will be closely monitored, as his experience is integral to reshaping narratives surrounding mental health within the sport.
While the NHL continues its focus on athletes' mental wellness, it’s clear they also remain poised to support personal struggles off the ice. Connor's resolve to return stronger will undoubtedly resonate movement toward greater mental health awareness—ensuring no player feels alone.