(670 The Score) Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews is out indefinitely because of a health issue that has left him “feeling drained and lethargic,” he said in a statement Tuesday. Neither Toews nor the team specified what he’s suffering from, and Toews indicated he’s trying to learn more about his condition.
“This offseason, I’ve been experiencing symptoms that have left me feeling drained and lethargic,” Toews said in a statement. “I am working with doctors so I can better understand my condition.
“Until I can get my health back to a place where I feel I can perform at an elite level and help my team, I will not be joining the Blackhawks for training camp. I do not have a timetable for when I will rejoin the team. I am extremely disappointed, but it wouldn’t be fair to myself or my teammates to attempt to play in my current condition.
“I am grateful for the continuous support from and ongoing communication with the Blackhawks organization. Stan Bowman, Rocky Wirtz, Danny Wirtz, Jeremy Colliton and my teammates have been nothing but understanding of my situation, and I appreciate them standing by me.
“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. 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, 32, won’t report for the start of Blackhawks training camp Sunday as he deals with the health issue.
“Jonathan’s health is our top priority as he deals with this medical issue,” president of hockey operations Stan Bowman said in a statement. “The Chicago Blackhawks organization and our medical staff will provide all necessary resources to help him return to playing hockey. While he will not report to training camp on January 3 and will be out indefinitely, we will continue to support him as he is an important part of our family. I’ve been in regular communication with Jonathan recently and will continue that as he takes care of his health.
“The health and privacy of all our players is paramount to the Chicago Blackhawks organization. We care about Jonathan, and we know how badly he wants to be with his teammates competing on the ice. We will provide further updates on his status as circumstances change and do not have a timetable for his return.”
A four-time All-Star and a centerpiece of three teams that won the Stanley Cup, Toews recorded 60 points (18 goals, 42 assists) in 70 games last season. His absence is another big blow for a Blackhawks team that’s already been decimated by injury. Second-year forward Kirby Dach is set to miss four to five months – essentially the entire regular season – after having right wrist surgery Monday.
The Blackhawks open their season against the Lightning on Jan. 13.