(670 The Score) Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews' health is improving, and he could return to action next season, Darren Dreger of TSN reported Wednesday evening.
Toews hasn't played this season due to an undisclosed medical issue. He's unlikely to join the Blackhawks at any point this season, according Dreger.
The Blackhawks are "optimistic" that Toews will return next season, general manager Stan Bowman said in an interview with the Athletic in late March.
Toews, 32, revealed through a statement in late December that he was experiencing a medical condition that was leaving him "drained and lethargic" and that he was working with doctors to better understand the condition. Toews added he wouldn't return until he could perform at an "elite level."
"To Blackhawks fans, I will continue to do whatever I can to get back on the ice and return to play the game I love for the team I love," Toews said in the statement. "I will not be making any further comment at this time and ask everyone to please respect my privacy as I focus on my health and recovery.”
Toews hasn't made any public comments since the initial statement.
Toews has played in 943 games since arriving in the NHL in 2007, scoring 345 goals and tallying 470 assists. He has been the Blackhawks' captain for their run of three Stanley Cup championships.
The Blackhawks (21-20-5) were hosting the Predators on Wednesday night at the United Center. The Blackhawks action in sixth place in the Central Division. The top four teams in each division advance to the playoffs.