Jonathan Toews, the former captain of the Chicago Blackhawks, is set to make his return to the NHL after a two-year hiatus, signing a one-year contract with his hometown team, the Winnipeg Jets. The news, initially reported by TSN's Pierre LeBrun, was later confirmed by the Jets through their social media channels, sending waves of excitement throughout the hockey world and especially among Jets fans. The official signing will take place on July 1, when free agency begins.
Toews, who turned 37 in April, last played in the NHL during the 2022-23 season with the Blackhawks. A series of health issues, including Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome and the lingering effects of long COVID-19, had sidelined him, limiting his playing time and ultimately leading to his departure from Chicago. After becoming an unrestricted free agent in 2023, Toews took time away from the game to focus on his health and well-being, embarking on what he described as a "healing journey" that included time in India and Bali.
Throughout his time away from the ice, Toews never officially announced his retirement, fueling speculation about a potential comeback. In March, he expressed his desire to return to the NHL, stating that he wasn't satisfied with how his tenure in Chicago had ended and felt he still had something left to offer.
The Winnipeg Jets, fresh off a successful regular season where they won the President's Trophy, are looking to bolster their roster for another deep playoff run. While they had an impressive regular season, the Jets were eliminated in the second round by the Dallas Stars, highlighting the need for added depth and leadership, especially at the center position. Toews, with his wealth of experience and proven track record, could be a valuable asset to the team.
Toews brings a decorated resume to Winnipeg. Drafted third overall by the Blackhawks in 2006, he quickly rose to prominence, becoming the team's captain in 2008. During his tenure in Chicago, Toews led the Blackhawks to three Stanley Cup championships (2010, 2013, and 2015), earning the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player in the 2010 playoffs. He also won the Selke Trophy in 2013 as the league's best defensive forward and the Mark Messier Leadership Award in 2015. In 1,067 career NHL games, Toews has recorded 372 goals and 883 points.
The move to Winnipeg marks a homecoming for Toews, who was born and raised in the city. The Jets' social media post announcing the signing, featuring the caption "The kid from St. Vital is coming home," underscores the emotional connection between Toews and his hometown. This signing is not just a strategic acquisition for the Jets, it’s a story of a local hero returning to inspire a city.
While questions remain about Toews's health and his ability to perform at the same level as before his hiatus, the Jets are betting that he can still contribute both on and off the ice. His leadership, experience, and hockey IQ could be invaluable to a team with Stanley Cup aspirations. For Toews, the opportunity to play in his hometown and potentially write the final chapter of his career with the Jets is a chance to end his career on his own terms and give back to the community that supported him from the beginning.
