Captain Serious has a solution that he thinks will help his game next season; be less serious.
According to Chris Kue of the Chicago Tribune, Toews stated:
“everyone knows I kind of get worked up, get a little emotional, maybe sometimes a little negative on the bench and on the ice. I have to remind myself to stick with my guns and know the things that I’m good at and the things that make me most effective for our team. But also knowing, especially when I had some of those better moments, it was when I was having fun, playing loose and not thinking too much. That’s the mindset I’ll have going into the season.”
It’s nice to see a pro emphasize the importance of enjoying the game, especially from the Winnipeg native, whose game-face has at times looked downright scary.
Mike Stobe/NHLI via Getty Images
The past couple of years obviously haven’t been as fun for Toews and his teammates, who experienced back-to-back first round exits after capturing Stanley Cups in 2010, 2013, and 2015. Chicago resorted back to their roots this past offseason by signing former Blackhawks star Patrick Sharp to a team-friendly deal, and trading for left winger Brandon Saad.
Perhaps a reunion will spark a fire in Chicago, and help the team solidify itself as the dynasty of its era. It definitely starts with a couple of more smiles from the captain.
(H/T r/Hockey)
