Statement from the NHLPA:
NEW YORK/TORONTO (March 18, 2019) – The National Hockey League (NHL) and National Hockey League Players’ Association (NHLPA) announced today that Nashville Predators forward Austin Watson has been returned to available status and has entered the follow-up care phase of the Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health (SABH) Program.
Watson’s care continues to be administered pursuant to the NHL/NHLPA SABH Program.
Statement from the Nashville Predators:
Nashville, Tenn. (March 18, 2019) – Consistent with the recommendations of the NHL/NHLPA Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health Program, Nashville Predators forward Austin Watson has been returned to available status and has entered the follow-up care phase of the program. Because of the personal nature and the steps outlined in the Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health Program, and our exclusive focus on Austin and his family’s well-being, there will be no further comment on this matter.
Adam Vingan of the Athletic adds this report:
The plan is for Austin Watson to participate in the Predators’ morning skate tomorrow, but there is no word on a return to the lineup.
— Adam Vingan (@AdamVingan) March 18, 2019