Jonathan Toews, a name synonymous with grit, leadership, and championship pedigree, is making a stunning return to the NHL after more than two years away from the game. The former Chicago Blackhawks captain has signed a one-year deal with the Winnipeg Jets, his hometown team, signaling a full-circle moment in his legendary career.
This highly anticipated return not only brings excitement to Jets fans but also adds a new chapter to the career of one of hockey’s most respected figures.
Table of Contents
From Captain Serious to NHL Legend
Jonathan Toews, born on April 29, 1988, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, was drafted 3rd overall by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft. He made his NHL debut in the 2007–08 season and was named team captain just a year later, at the age of 20—making him the third-youngest captain in NHL history at the time.
Over his 15 seasons with Chicago, Toews led the franchise to three Stanley Cup championships (2010, 2013, 2015). He also earned individual accolades, including the Conn Smythe Trophy (2010) as the most valuable player in the playoffs and the Frank J. Selke Trophy (2013) as the league’s best defensive forward.
By 2015, Toews had joined the prestigious Triple Gold Club, having won a Stanley Cup, an Olympic gold medal, and an IIHF World Championship—a feat only the most elite players achieve.
A Pause for Health: The Long Road Back
Despite his impressive resume, Toews’ journey hasn’t been without hardship. In December 2020, he was diagnosed with Chronic Immune Response Syndrome (CIRS), a condition that caused him to miss the entire 2020–21 season. He later revealed he was also dealing with long COVID symptoms, which significantly impacted his energy and overall health.
Toews returned for the 2021–22 and 2022–23 seasons, but the effects of illness lingered. In April 2023, after his final game with the Blackhawks, he stepped away from the sport, prompting fans to wonder if his career had quietly come to an end.
However, in early 2025, rumors of a comeback began to surface. And in June 2025, they were confirmed.
The Winnipeg Homecoming: One-Year Deal with the Jets
Toews has signed a one-year contract with the Winnipeg Jets, set to begin on July 1, 2025. Financial terms were not officially disclosed, but reports suggest a base salary of around $2 million, with performance bonuses based on playoff achievements.
The move is significant for multiple reasons. First, it’s a return to the city where Toews grew up and began his hockey journey. Second, it places him on a team already considered a contender in the Western Conference, with stars like Mark Scheifele, Kyle Connor, and Connor Hellebuyck leading the way.
In a public statement, Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff said:
“Bringing in a player of Jonathan Toews’ caliber not only adds depth but also championship experience. His leadership is unmatched, and we’re thrilled to welcome him home.”
What This Means for the NHL
Jonathan Toews’ return is more than just a feel-good story. It could significantly impact the 2025–26 NHL season. His defensive prowess, faceoff skills, and leadership in the locker room are assets that can’t be quantified by stats alone.
Toews is returning to a league that has evolved during his absence—faster, younger, and more skill-driven. But if his previous performances and recovery regimen are any indication, he’s not coming back to ride the bench. He’s coming back to win.
For fans in Chicago, the news is bittersweet. Toews spent his entire career with the Blackhawks, leading them through one of the most dominant eras in franchise history. Now, as he dons a different jersey, he’ll likely receive standing ovations when the Jets face the Blackhawks next season.
Final Thoughts: A Legacy Still in Motion
Jonathan Toews is one of the most respected figures in modern hockey. With over 1,000 NHL games played, nearly 900 career points, and multiple championship titles, his legacy is already secure.
But this comeback proves that Toews isn’t done writing his story.
Whether this season becomes a final lap or a fresh beginning, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how he performs in Winnipeg. One thing is certain: Jonathan Toews’ return is great news for the sport of hockey.
For continuous updates on NHL news and sports stories, visit Megtaza, your go-to platform for trending news in sports, health, and tech.