Toews Faces Blackhawks for First Time as Jets Player

WINNIPEG, Canada — Jonathan Toews will face his former team, the Chicago Blackhawks, for the first time when the Winnipeg Jets host them at Canada Life Centre Thursday at 8 p.m. ET.

Toews spent 16 seasons with the Blackhawks, winning three Stanley Cups before signing a one-year contract with his hometown Jets this past July. The forward, now 37, has accumulated five points, including two goals and three assists, in 10 games this season.

“Chicago was my home for a long time,” Toews said. “It’s days like this that you get to stop for a second, reflect, look back. I think there’s still a connection to the organization and the city of Chicago and I think there always will be.”

In his final season with the Blackhawks in 2022-23, Toews missed significant time due to long COVID-19 and chronic immune response syndrome. This Thursday’s game marks his first matchup against the franchise that made him famous.

The Jets currently sit at 7-3-0 and are looking to maintain their strong start to the season, with Toews playing a vital role on the second line. His former teammate, Blackhawks captain, praised Toews’ determination to return to play. “If he’s told he’s not going to do it, he’s going to do it,” said the Blackhawks captain. “You knew if he did that, he was still going to come back and be an effective player in this league.”

Meanwhile, the Blackhawks enter the game with a surprising 5-3-2 record, bolstered by young star Connor Bedard, who recently recorded his first NHL hat trick. “It’s exciting to see that the fans in Chicago have something to cheer for,” Toews remarked.

Fans anticipate an emotional match, especially as the Jets and Blackhawks engage in a competitive clash. As Toews prepares to hit the ice, he remains focused on helping his current team while still cherishing his time in Chicago. “I’m just trying to go out there and play loose, play with some confidence,” he said, highlighting his readiness for the challenge.