Jonathan Toews to take time off professional hockey

Jonathan Toews has announced he is taking a step back from professional hockey and will miss the upcoming 2023-24 season.

The 35-year-old will focus on dealing with health issues related to long COVID and chronic immune response syndrome.

Jonathan Toews is "taking time away from the game this season," but "not fully retiring." Via his Instagram: pic.twitter.com/aaPPMWqimk

— Mark Lazerus (@MarkLazerus) August 17, 2023

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Blackhawks confirm Toews will not return to team next season

“I cannot deny my love for the game of hockey and still feel the passion for competing at my highest level,” Toews said in a statement. “However, these last few seasons have been very difficult considering my health challenges. My focus is to give myself the time and space to fully heal and enjoy life to the fullest once again.”

Toews played only 53 games last year due to long-term symptoms from COVID and the veteran admitted that it was getting more and more difficult to play consistently.

He registered 15 goals and 16 assists for 31 points.