ANAHEIM, Calif. - Two players throughout the 89-year history of the Blackhawks have made such indelible marks on the franchise that they have been immortalized with statues outside the United Center.
One of them, Stan Mikita, is foremost in the thoughts of fans and those associated with the organization as the legendary player "is facing some serious health issues," according to a statement a family spokesman released Friday that his daughter Jane confirmed.
"Stan has been diagnosed with suspected Lewy body dementia, a progressive disease, and is currently under the care of compassionate and understanding care givers," the statement said.
One of the most recognizable and endearing figures in Chicago sports history, Mikita spent his entire 22-year professional career with the Hawks and along with fellow Hawks great Bobby Hull is honored with a statue outside Gate 31/2 at the United Center.
Mikita, 74, is the franchise's all-time leading scorer with 1,467 points and is second to Hull in goals with 541. The native of Sokolce, Czechoslovakia, won the Hart Trophy as the NHL's most valuable player in 1967 and 1968, and the Art Ross Trophy as the league's leading scorer in 1964, 1965, 1967 and 1968. Mikita also captured the Lady Byng Trophy for gentlemanly play in 1967 and 1968. The center was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1983.
"It's terribly unfortunate," captain Jonathan Toews said after the Hawks' morning skate at the Honda Center as the team prepared to face the Ducks in Anaheim on Friday night. "He's a big part of this family and the history of what it means to be a Blackhawk. You don't feel the honor and privilege to play for the Hawks if it's not for people and players like Stan Mikita.
"Long after his playing days he's still a humble, down-to-earth person who takes the time to talk to everybody. He found ways to make other people feel good about themselves and feel special. That says more about him than anything else.
"We all look up to him and what he accomplished for the game. Our thoughts are definitely with him and his family."
Added winger Patrick Kane: "More than anything, it's just cool getting to know those guys a little bit. You read about them as a kid and watch different highlight clips of them when you're younger. To get the chance to meet those guys and hang out with them a little bit, and talk to them and become pretty close to them is better than any advice that you could receive. Just knowing those guys is pretty unreal."
Mikita's family has requested privacy, "during this difficult time." According to the Mayo Clinic, people with LBD can suffer from memory loss, motor function problems and hallucinations.
"A true Chicago sports icon, Stan has always felt that fans are first and foremost," the statement said. "The family of Stan Mikita truly appreciates the support he has received over the many years he has played, worked and lived in the Chicago area. They hope the fans will keep him in their thoughts and prayers."
The Hawks organization released a statement saying, "We are aware of the unfortunate health news regarding Blackhawks Ambassador and Hockey Hall of Famer Stan Mikita. We are thinking of Stan and his family at this difficult time, and wish him well."
On March 7, 2008, the Hawks honored Mikita and Hull in a ceremony at the United Center, helping repair the damage of some difficult times with previous team management for both players.
"I spent so many years proudly wearing the Indian head sweater, but tonight I'm even more proud to be welcomed back and be a part of the great moments that lie ahead for this great franchise," Mikita said that night. "Seeing some of my old teammates, this building packed to the rafters and being able to share this with my friends and my family is something surely I won't forget for a long, long time."
Twitter @ChrisKuc