Jonathan Toews Leaves the Door Open for NHL Return: A Potential Comeback?
Former Chicago Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews has been absent from the ice since April 2023, leaving many to believe his NHL career was over. After battling chronic immune response syndrome and long COVID, Toews missed the entire 2021-2022 season and a significant portion of the 2022-2023 NHL season. Yet, despite these challenges, Toews is not completely closing the door on a potential return to professional hockey.
In a recent interview with Matthew Roberson for GQ, Toews revealed that the competitive spirit still burns within him, and he is open to the possibility of rejoining the NHL. “I haven’t spoken about this to a lot of people, but it’s definitely still in there,” he shared. “I’ve talked to a lot of the guys that are done, and a lot of them will say that desire to be on the ice competing and to be in the locker room with the guys never goes away.”
Toews’ Continued Desire to Compete
Despite stepping away from the game, Toews admits that the urge to compete never truly leaves. He acknowledges that many players experience this feeling, even after retiring. “It’s just something you have to accept when your time comes,” he said. But for Toews, it seems his time may not have come just yet. “There’s a big part of me that really wants to give it my all, to get back on the ice and see where it takes me.”
This sentiment hints at the possibility of a comeback, as Toews remains determined to prove that his career is not over. “There’s a part of me that really doesn’t feel like my career is over yet,” Toews added. “Who knows what this next part of the journey looks like, as far as getting back on the ice and trying to make a return to the NHL.”
Taking Time Away to Heal
While Toews hasn’t been actively pursuing a contract with any NHL team, he explained that his decision to step away from the game was driven by a need for healing and self-reflection. “I didn’t explore trying to sign another contract with anybody because I knew deep down I needed some time away from the game,” Toews admitted. “I wanted to give my body the time and space to truly heal and figure this stuff out.”
This break allowed him to focus on his health and recovery, ensuring that, if he does return to the NHL, he can do so at his best.
A Legacy Built on Success
Toews’ legacy is already cemented in Blackhawks history. As the captain, he led the team to three Stanley Cup championships in 2010, 2013, and 2015, making him one of the most successful players in the franchise’s history. With 372 goals, Toews ranks sixth in all-time goals for the Blackhawks and sits sixth in points with 883. He has also played the fifth most games in team history, with 1,067.
Given his significant impact on the Blackhawks and the league, Toews’ potential return to the NHL would undoubtedly generate excitement. Whether or not he finds another contract with an NHL team remains to be seen, but for now, Toews is staying optimistic about his future, keeping the dream of a return alive.
What’s Next for Toews?
While there are no guarantees in life, Jonathan Toews is determined to give it his best shot if he decides to make a comeback. Whether or not he returns to the NHL, his legacy as one of the game’s elite leaders and players is secure. Time will tell if Toews gets one last chance to shine on the ice, but for now, he remains hopeful and eager to explore what the next chapter might hold.
