Popular Blackhawks TV Analyst To Miss Most Of Season

Eddie Olczyk, the popular TV analyst for the Chicago Blackhawks and NBC Sports, could miss most of this upcoming season.

I grew up a huge Chicago Blackhawks fan.

My first hockey jersey was, of course, Chicago Blackhawks. It was number 16 Eddie Olczyk. He was my favorite player. I was heartbroken when he got traded.

I was excited when the team brought him back to work the games with Blackhawks legendary TV announcer, Pat Foley. They have great chemistry and really add something special to the broadcasts. Olczyk is so knowledgeable about the game of hockey.

I also enjoy listening to Eddie when he works games on NBC Sports with one of the best of all time, Doc Emrick. For me, it's really hard to watch anyone else.

Sadly, a few weeks ago Eddie Olczyk was diagnosed with Colon Cancer. He recently had surgery and is currently going through treatment.

Here is an update on his health from letsgohawks.net,

"During the first preseason game Pat Foley gave an update on Olczyk's status and it's quite the battle he's got in front of him."

"Olczyk had recently gone through a five-hour surgery which took him six weeks to recover from and the treatment will now require six months of chemotherapy."

"Even though Olczyk had mentioned he plans to return to the booth following his treatment, it's looking like he'll miss a big part of this season. His health, of course, being the most important."

Since I work for the Rockford IceHogs, I've been lucky enough to meet and talk with him a couple times. He's always been super nice.

I send out prayers to him and his family during this difficult time.I wish him a speedy recovery and I look forward to hearing again sometime soon. Watching Blackhawks games won't be the same without him.

Video: Rockford IceHogs Colonial Cup Flashback with Mike Peck