NHL Veteran Zack MacEwen Takes Leave Of Absence From Senators: 'Don't Be Afraid To Ask For Help'

Ottawa Senators right winger Zack MacEwen is taking an indefinite leave of absence for personal reasons.

Shortly after the AHL's Belleville Senators announced MacEwen's absence, the 28-year-old made a story post to his Instagram account.

"As many of you now know, I will be taking a leave of absence from hockey to focus on myself," MacEwen wrote. "For people that know me, you know how hard the loss of my father was, and I will be taking the steps to heal and get the help that I need.

"I'm very thankful for the love and support I have already received. I am especially thankful for my amazing wife who has been my rock. Please respect my privacy at this time."

Belleville's club said the entire Senators organization is committed to supporting MacEwen.

"He is a valued member of our organization and has our full backing," said the team statement. "Out of respect to Zack’s privacy, we will not have further comment at this time."

MacEwen and his family launched the My Biggest Fan Foundation to honor the legacy of his father, Craig MacEwen, who died of a stroke in May 2020. The foundation, which accepts donations, offers scholarships, financial support for hockey registrations and tournaments, and equipment for players in need of support.

"Craig loved both of his boys, supported their dreams and instilled in them the importance of hard work, dedication and being a good man," the foundation's website says. "Craig always carried a smile, had time for a chat and offered to lend a kind ear. He loved to help people, often passing the boys' outgrown hockey equipment to whoever needed it. It did not matter what it was, Craig would give what he had quietly and without hesitation."

MacEwen ended his statement on Tuesday by thanking his support system, including his family, the NHL and the hockey community.

"Don't be afraid to ask for help," he wrote.

MacEwen signed a three-year contract with the Senators in 2023. He has three points in 21 NHL games this year and nine points in 15 AHL games. MacEwen has played 237 career NHL games across seven seasons between the Vancouver Canucks, Philadelphia Flyers, Los Angeles Kings and Senators.