Jonathan Toews joins hometown Winnipeg Jets in return to NHL
Jonathan Toews, the former captain of the Chicago Blackhawks and three-time Stanley Cup champion, is returning home to play for the Winnipeg Jets. The 37-year-old center, who was born in Winnipeg and played youth hockey in the city, has agreed to sign with the Jets pending official confirmation on July 1.
“We are thrilled to add a proven winner like Jonathan Toews to the Winnipeg Jets,” said general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff in a statement released on the Jets’ website. “His talent, drive, and experience will be a great complement to our club. We look forward to his return to the NHL with his hometown team.”
Toews, who spent his entire career with the Blackhawks before stepping away from the game in February 2023 due to health issues, announced his intention to return for the 2025-26 season earlier this year. After undergoing Ayurvedic detox therapy in India to address his health concerns, Toews is ready to make his comeback to professional hockey.
The center, who was the third overall pick in the 2006 NHL draft, brings an impressive resume to the Jets. In addition to his three Stanley Cup victories with the Blackhawks, Toews is a two-time Olympic gold medalist, a recipient of the Conn Smythe Trophy, the Frank J. Selke Trophy, and the Mark Messier Leadership Award. He has also represented Canada in various international competitions, winning multiple gold medals.
Toews’ return to the NHL is highly anticipated, especially by the Winnipeg community where he is a beloved figure. The Jonathan Toews Sportsplex, located in the St. Vital neighborhood where he grew up, has been a significant part of his life and he has been a generous supporter of the facility. His decision to join the Jets has sparked excitement and celebration among fans, friends, and fellow players.
As Toews prepares to take the ice with the Jets, his presence is expected to bolster the team’s lineup and provide leadership and experience to a group that has shown promise in recent seasons. With Toews joining forces with talented players like Mark Scheifele, Adam Lowry, and Vladislav Namestnikov, the Jets are poised to make a strong push for success in the upcoming season.
The official signing of Jonathan Toews with the Winnipeg Jets on July 1 will mark a new chapter in his storied career and a homecoming that is sure to be celebrated by fans and the entire Winnipeg community. As he dons the Jets jersey and takes to the ice in his hometown, Toews will undoubtedly bring his trademark intensity, professionalism, and passion for the game, inspiring those around him to strive for greatness on and off the ice.
