Nuccio DiNuzzo/Chicago Tribune/TNS via Getty Images(CHICAGO) — Scoring 26 goals at the age of 38, it seemed as if nothing would be able to slow Marian Hossa down. That is, until it was discovered that the three-time Stanley Cup winner and five-time All Star had been battling a skin condition due to an allergic reaction to his equiptment. As a result, Hossa will not play in the upcoming 2017-18 NHL season.
“While I am disappointed that I will not be able to play, I have to consider the severity of my condition and how the treatments have impacted my life both on and off the ice,” Hossa said in a statement Wednesday. “The Chicago Blackhawks organization, including Rocky Wirtz, John McDonough and Stan Bowman, and my agent, Ritch Winter, have been very supportive throughout this entire process.”
“The Chicago Blackhawks are in full support of Marian Hossa as he addresses his medical issues,” Blackhawks Senior Vice President and General Manager Stan Bowman said in a statement. “This is extremely difficult for us because we all know the incredible person and player that Marian Hossa is — competitive, loyal and humble. He has played a major role in the success our franchise has experienced in recent years, which makes his departure from our lineup a significant loss.”
“Marian has been dealing with the effects of a progressive skin disorder that is becoming more and more difficult to treat and control with conventional medications while he plays hockey,” Blackhawks’ team physician Dr. Michael Terry said. “Because of the dramatic nature of the medications required and their decreasing effectiveness, we strongly support his decision not to play during the 2017-18 season.”
Copyright © 2017, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.