Hawks insider denies rumours that Toews has a “severe case” of ALS

We have been without any news from Chicago Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews ever since he said he had been “experiencing symptoms that have left me feeling drained and lethargic” back in December. There is no timetable for his return. 

Toews hasn’t say anything on his condition or his recovery. Back in February, following a swarms of unfounded rumors on social media that the team knew more about Toews and why he couldn’t play, the Blackhawks responded to the chatter by insisting that the circumstances of Toews’ medical absence remain the same as before.

We barely know what that means since no information has been given on Toews’ condition and this prompted a fan to ask Hawks insider Mark Lazerus several questions on the captain’s condition, wondering if insiders knew more than what they’re reporting, and what are rules and guidelines when it comes to a private matter as such. 

Lazerus took the time to answer the questions and also to deny some strong rumours that have been heard about no. 19. The insider got especially mad at fans suggesting that Toews is suffering from ALS and said this about the rumours: 

“Toews requested privacy, and he has every right to keep his situation to himself. But his silence only fuels the rampant, baseless speculation among hockey fans in Chicago and around the world. I had one person tweet at me that he “heard” Toews had a “severe case” of ALS. That brings three thoughts immediately to mind: 1. It’s not true. 2. Who are this random dude’s sources? 3. What the hell is a “severe” case of ALS? Can one have “a touch” of ALS? Just stop. You don’t know what Toews is dealing with, and nobody on your Twitter feed does, either.”

Lazerus went on to say that sure, he knows more about Toews’ situation than what he writes in his articles, but he has enjoyed an excellent working relationship with Toews over the past nine seasons and is respecting his wish for privacy. 

“So Toews is well aware that I (and surely others) would love to speak with him and tell his story. But it’s just that — /his/ story. This is a unique situation, and Toews is a singular figure in this city. If anyone has earned the benefit of the doubt, and the right to wait until he decides it’s time to speak, it’s Toews. So until he’s ready to talk, we’re all going to have to sit, be patient and be hopeful.”

He reminds fans that TSN’s Darren Dreger first reported in late April that Toews is improving and that the Blackhawks are indeed optimistic he’ll be able to return to the team in the fall.

But time will tell. In the meantime, Lazerus suggests to stop tweeting.