Blackhawks' Toews explains absence, plans to play next season

Chicago Blackhawks center Jonathan Toews (19) in action during the game between the Stars and the Blackhawks at the American Airlines Center. Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews explains absence, plans to play next season

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 6/30/21

Chicago Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews missed the entire 2020-21 season due to an undisclosed medical issue. On Wednesday, he revealed exactly why he missed the year.

Toews announced on social media that he was dealing with Chronic Immune Response Syndrome. He added that his body felt like it was "falling apart" after years of immense stress.

I wasn’t too vocal about the things I went through this year. I appreciate the understanding and support and wanted to share this message on where I’m at. pic.twitter.com/3qgftKki10
— Jonathan Toews (@JonathanToews) June 30, 2021

Toews is back skating in Chicago and is working his way back, aiming to play the 2021-22 season. The 33-year-old last appeared in 70 games during the 2019-20 campaign, scoring 18 goals to go along with 60 points.

The Winnipeg native has been a staple in Chicago's lineup since 2007, leading the Blackhawks to three Stanley Cup titles thus far. He has two years remaining on his contract at $10.5 million per season. It's unclear if he plans to call it quits at the end of his deal, when he'll be 35.

More must-reads: