(Chicago) Former Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews has chosen to take a break from hockey to regain his health after being limited to 53 games last season.

The 35-year-old Manitoban is a free agent after 15 seasons with Chicago.

“I’d like to announce that I’m not completely retiring, but I’m making time for myself again,” Toews wrote on social media.

He missed the entire 2020-21 season due to long COVID symptoms and chronic immune response syndrome.

“I love hockey and I still have the passion to compete at my highest level,” he continued. However, the last few seasons have been very difficult given my health problems. »

Stanley Cup champion in 2010, 2013 and 2015, Toews had 15 goals and 31 points last season, the final year of an eight-year, $84m contract.

Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson said at the end of the season that the team would not offer him a new contract.

“The idea of ​​playing for another team right now is so far in my mind right now, especially after that time,” Toews said after receiving a standing ovation from Hawks fans in Chicago on April 13.

Drafted third overall in 2006, Toews was 20 when he was named captain of the Blackhawks.

He scored 372 goals and 883 points with them, winning the Conn Smythe Trophy in 2010 as playoff MVP.

In 2018, he was named one of the 100 Greatest Players in NHL History.

“My goal is to give myself the time and space to fully heal and enjoy life to the fullest again,” he wrote on Instagram.

“I have met several people who have struggled with health issues related to long COVID, chronic immune response syndrome and other similar fairly complex cases. I now recognize the importance of one day sharing the details of my health journey with you all. »