Player Speaks Out As Another Scandal Emerges Form The 2016 Chicago Blackhawks

In the book, Tootoo explained a conversation with Bowman, making it clear he wouldn't accept a move to the AHL due to personal reasons – his wife being pregnant, and a reluctance to uproot his family.

To work around this, Tootoo proposed the idea of being placed on long-term injury reserve (LTIR) to
Bowman agreed to this plan, suggesting Tootoo get an MRI on his shoulder as a plausible reason for the move to LTIR. While this arrangement suited Tootoo's personal life, it raises concerns about potential manipulation of the NHL salary cap, a sentiment echoed by frustrated fans on social media.

Tootoo followed through with the plan, attending one pregame skate in Rockford to fulfill the appearance requirement before going on long-term IR for the rest of the season. Despite remaining on the payroll, Tootoo wasn't contacted by anyone for the remainder of the year, raising questions about the lack of communication regarding his mental health, family life with his newborn, and overall well-being.

This revelation adds another layer to the complexities surrounding the Blackhawks during that period, drawing discontent from several NHL fans and analysts who have voiced their concerns about this unsettling situation.

Source: Hawksinsider