Savard said it would be "very special" to see Douglas in the winner's circle.

WSJ: Paralyzed jockey Douglas now successful owner

He fired coach Denis Savard after winning only once in this season's first four games, replacing him with Joel Quenneville, who has guided the Blackhawks on-ice success.

FORBES: Hockey

For much of the time in the hospital, a group of five friends from Chicago including a doctor, a judge and Hall of Fame hockey player Denis Savard were with Douglas almost around the clock alongside his wife Natalia.

WSJ: Paralyzed jockey Douglas now successful owner