Concerning health update from Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews.

Chicago Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews has just released a rather concerning statement, one that would appear to put his future in the National Hockey League in doubt.

On Sunday, Toews released a statement via the Blackhawks organization that made it clear that health issues were forcing him to step away from the game and the sport that he loves so dearly. In his statement, Toews went on to describe how serious complications from Covid had reached a point where he was now being forced to step away and focus on his health and well being moving forward.

From Jonathan Toews:

First of all, thank you to the fans and all those who have shown concern about my absence. I'm still dealing with the symptoms of Long COVID and Chronic Immune Response Syndrome.

It has been really challenging to play through these symptoms. In the last few weeks, it has reached the point where I had no choice but to step back and concentrate on getting healthy. I am thankful for the patience and support of my teammates, the coaching staff, and the entire Blackhawks organization.

There isn't really a great deal more to say on the issue other than I hope that Toews makes a full recovery and gets the chance to end his career in the NHL on his own terms.

Update: For what it's worth, Kyle Davidson expressed his hopes that Toews will be able to play again this season. I certainly hope that will be the case.