The Blackhawks have done their best, including a multi-month moratorium on interviews in the spring, to stay out of focus during the coronavirus pandemic.
But with daily practices and daily interviews, which resumed on Monday, Hawks captain Jonathan Toews was quick to make several controversial comments about the pandemic.
When asked about the NHL’s Return to Play plan, which will create a bubble call around players in central cities, Toews said he is excited that hockey is a “favorite” in the return of sports.
“You are going to find all kinds of different attitudes up to the bubble,” he added. “Part of me says being away from people and isolating ourselves is not really the answer.”
Toews expanded his thoughts a few minutes later.
“Does anyone really know how and when people catch this?” he asked rhetorically. “The best thing you can do is rest well, eat healthy, take care of your body, do the little things that decrease your possibilities. What else can you do?”
“Sitting down and worrying about it will only drive you crazy. The NHL has done everything possible to create a safe environment. It is far from perfect, but everyone has their own beliefs when they see where they stand with all of this. ”
Toews’ comments caused a stir on Twitter, and many fans noted that many studies indicate that scientists have actually determined how COVID-19 is transmitted, and that social distancing has proven effective in decreasing that transmission.
This is not the captain’s first candid moment since the season stopped. Toews posted an emotional statement on Instagram on June 1, shortly after George Floyd’s death, calling on “whites to open our eyes and hearts.”
Praised Seabrook’s Return
Brent Seabrook’s bearded face was somehow a familiar sight and also surprising at Fifth Third Arena on Monday.
After 15 seasons with the Hawks, Seabrook has endured thousands upon thousands of Hawks practices; he is long before the Hawks’ practice facility itself.
But not since December 18 did Seabrook, who came out of three surgeries, skate with the rest of the team.
“It will not be easy, but the fact that he is here and can bring his experience and his presence to the group is a great benefit to us,” said Colliton.
“I know that Brent is fully aware of his body and what he wants to do,” Keith said. “Joining the group in the middle of the summer, without adequate preparation for boot camp, just shows the kind of character and commitment he has. We all take note of that and it inspires us all. ”
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Mitchell deal imminent
Top prospect Ian Mitchell unofficially signed his entry-level contract with the Hawks in April, but that contract has yet to be officially unveiled, because his start date has yet to be determined.
The Hawks could burn one of Mitchell’s initial three years in 2019-20, allowing him to practice with the team, but he would not be eligible for the playoffs because he signed after the season stopped in March. Or they could get their contract started with the 2020-21 season.
General manager Stan Bowman said Monday that he is close to an agreement with Mitchell’s agent on which way to go.
Oilers take down two defenders
Oilers defender Mike Green was one of the few players in the league who chose not to restart the NHL. The 34-year veteran, who played just two games for the Oilers after a Detroit deadline change and before the season break, cited “deeply personal family health reasons.”
The Oilers also missed young defender Caleb Jones, a 2019-20 breakout, in his first practice on Monday. Jones, like Corey Crawford, received the “not fit to play” designation.
His absences deal a significant blow to the Oilers’ defensive depth.
