The Chicago Blackhawks announced they are unlikely to trade Jonathan Toews as he is the team’s captain dealing with symptoms related to Long COVID and Chronic Immune Response Syndrome.
Toews, 34, has not played since January 28. Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson noted that the team hopes Toews can play again this seasonalthough the center has suspended skating for now.
While there is near-term clarity at Toews, the Blackhawks remain on hold with Patrick Kane.
Jonathan Toews will remain in Chicago for the close of trading after announcing he has Long Covid. (Getty Images)
Toews sheds light on health issues
Toews released the following statement about the Blackhawks on Sunday.
“First of all I would like to thank the fans and all those who have expressed concern about my absence. I am still battling the symptoms of Long COVID and Chronic Immune Response Syndrome.
“It was really challenging to act out those symptoms. It got to the point in the last few weeks where I had no choice but to step back and focus on getting healthy. I’m grateful for the patience and support of my teammates, the coaching staff and the entire Blackhawks organization.”
As you may recall, Toews missed the entire 2020-21 season dealing with COVID-related symptoms. The Blackhawks emphasized that this is something the player and team have been trying to deal with for some time.
Along with hoping Toews could play again this season, Davidson noted that the Blackhawks haven’t ruled out the possibility of a Toews or Patrick Kane re-signing.
Blackhawks expect clarity on a possible Kane trade soon
With the March 3rd closing fast approaching, the ball is in Patrick Kane’s hands. Kane, 34, has a no-movement clause. That power helped explain why it was so notable that Kane expressed disappointment that Rangers had traded for Vladimir Tarasenko and dropped out to take him to the Big Apple.
So the Blackhawks are just hoping Kane will give them more clarity “soon.”
Last but not least, the delay allows the trading market to thin out. Tarasenko is already off the market and Bo Horvat has also been caught. While Timo Meier is considered the most prominent striker, the Haie seem keen to land a slew of assets for Meier. Despite his name value, could Kane garner more attention if Chicago simply demands less?
The story goes on
It would certainly help if Kane accepted a trade in multiple locations, but that’s his choice.
Chances are there are many Blackhawks fans who dread the day Kane wears a different jersey. Those fans can at least take solace that Toews isn’t being traded.
It’s unclear if Toews can play again for the Blackhawks or another team, but right now he’s not a fit for anyone else, at least in 2022-23.
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