Blackhawks' Toews out indefinitely with illness

Chicago Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews will miss the start of the upcoming campaign due to an illness and there is no timetable for his return, the team announced Tuesday.

"This offseason, I've been experiencing symptoms that have left me feeling drained and lethargic. I am working with doctors so I can better understand my condition," Toews said.

"Until I can get my health back to a place where I feel I can perform at an elite level and help my team, I will not be joining the Blackhawks for training camp. I do not have a timetable for when I will rejoin the team. I am extremely disappointed, but it wouldn't be fair to myself or my teammates to attempt to play in my current condition."

Toews registered 60 points in 70 games last season while finishing 15th in Selke Trophy voting and also added five goals with four assists in nine postseason contests.

Chicago's center depth will be put to the test early, as the Blackhawks expect phenom Kirby Dach to miss the first four-to-five months after undergoing wrist surgery.

Dylan Strome, who remains an unsigned restricted free agent, is projected as the team's top center to begin the campaign, followed by offseason additions Carl Soderberg and Lucas Wallmark.