Jonathan Toews Plans NHL Comeback After Two-Year Hiatus

CHICAGO, Illinois — Former Chicago Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews is preparing to return to the NHL after a two-year absence. Toews, 37, informed his agent Pat Brisson earlier this week that he is fully committed to making a comeback next season.

Brisson confirmed Toews’ intentions on Thursday, stating, “Yes, 100 percent. Johnny is feeling great and we’re moving forward.” With the NHL free agency period opening on July 1, Toews is eligible to negotiate with any of the league’s 32 teams.

Toews enjoyed a stellar 15-year career with the Blackhawks, leading the team to three Stanley Cup titles between 2010 and 2015. He also earned the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP during the 2010 Stanley Cup playoffs. As a member of Team Canada, Toews contributed to gold medal wins at the 2010 and 2014 Olympics.

However, Toews stepped away from the ice in February 2023 due to health issues related to Chronic Immune Response Syndrome and long COVID. The timing of his exit coincided with the Blackhawks entering a rebuild phase, finishing their last playoff run in 2020.

Throughout his career, Toews scored 372 goals and recorded 511 assists in 1,067 regular-season games. He was drafted third overall by the Blackhawks in 2006 and is recognized as one of the NHL’s top 100 players from its first 100 seasons.

While Toews’ return has been greeted enthusiastically by fans, it appears unlikely to be with Chicago, as the team focuses on nurturing younger talent. Nonetheless, supporters are hopeful that Toews will find a fitting home and continue his legacy in the sport.