Nashville Predators forward Austin Watson has been placed in Stage 2 of the NHL and NHLPA's Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health Program, the league announced Tuesday.

The treatment is in relation to "his ongoing issues with alcohol abuse," the release states. Under the terms of the program, Watson will be suspended without pay until he is cleared by administrators.

Watson was suspended for 27 games in mid-September 2018 - later reduced to 18 games - when he pleaded no contest to a domestic assault charge in late July after being arrested in June.

Earlier this month, Watson opened up about his mental health and struggles with sobriety in a detailed Instagram post.

In 34 games with the Predators this season, Watson's posted seven goals and 13 points.

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