Andrew Shaw sits out NHL's return to focus on his recovery and health

Andrew Shaw of the Chicago Blackhawks will be sitting out the NHL's 24-team play-ins and playoffs (should his team make it that far) in order to heal from his latest concussion. The feisty 28-year-old forward, who has not played since November of 2019, has suffered a number of concussions throughout his career but it appears he's taking his latest one very seriously.

"I just wanted to let all Blackhawks and hockey fans know that I am doing well and getting better every day!," Shaw posted on his Instagram account. "I feel healthy and am close to being fully healed from not just my last concussion but from others I have had over the years."

Shaw went on to say that he's been working hard over the last few years to learn more about concussions and head injuries in general and thanked Chicago's medical staff for helping him along the way. He said he's the type of person who would play through anything for his teammates.

"With all that being said, along with my family who has shown me so much support, we have come to the difficult decision that these extra five months until next season would be great for my health and recovery," Shaw wrote. "I look forward to being back next season better and stronger than ever! There's nothing I would love more than to be back out on the ice with the boys battling for Lord Stanley!"

Shaw ended his statement by wishing the Blackhawks all the best in their play-in round against the Edmonton Oilers and during the rest of the playoffs, adding he'll be cheering them on the entire way. Shaw managed 26 games in 2019-20, scoring three goals and 10 points.

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