Blackhawks' Toews thanks Weber for leaving Central Division

While the Montreal Canadiens faithful appear devastated to see P.K. Subban traded to the Nashville Predators for fellow defenseman Shea Weber, Chicago Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews is relieved by the ramifications of the trade.

Related: Canadiens fans outraged after Subban trade to Nashville

Toews has battled against Weber since he joined the NHL in 2007-08, but will no longer have to go head-to-head with the punishing blue-liner with Weber exiting the Central Division.

The Predators and Blackhawks battled five times last season and have squared off 63 times - including the playoffs - since 2007-08.