Hossa will not play during the 2017-18 season due to the side effects of medication related to a progressive skin disorder, Chris Kuc of the Chicago Tribune reports.

EDGE Analysis

Hossa and the Blackhawks were very clear in their statements that his absence would be for the 2017-18 campaign and made no mention of retirement or the future. The winger registered 45 points in 73 contests this past year while averaging 16:51 of ice time -- production that will be sorely missed in Chicago. It is all but certain that the veteran will be placed on long-term injured reserve in order to give the Hawks additional cap space -- $5.275 million at the most -- which should give them some added flexibility heading into the upcoming season.