Blackhawks' Jonathan Toews coping with long COVID-19

Chicago Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews announced Sunday that he is still dealing with symptoms of long COVID-19 and chronic immune response syndrome.

Toews, 34, has missed the Blackhawks' last six games due to illness. He sat out the entire 2020-21 season due to chronic immune response syndrome.

"First of all, thank you to the fans and all those who have shown concern about my absence," Toews wrote in a statement that was released by the Blackhawks. "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."

Toews has totaled 28 points (14 goals, 14 assists) in 46 games this season. The three-time Stanley Cup champion (2010, 2013, 2015) is playing in the final season of an eight-year, $84 million contract and will become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the campaign.

Per the Daily Faceoff, Toews will not be moved prior to the NHL's trade deadline on March 3.

A former Selke Trophy recipient as the league's top defensive forward in 2013, Toews has 880 points (371 goals, 509 assists) in 1,060 career games since the Blackhawks selected him with the third overall pick of the 2006 NHL Draft.