Jonathan Toews opens up on NHL return

Published in Sports and Competition on Saturday, September 13th 2025 at 19:38 GMT by Sporting News
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Jonathan Toews Signals a Triumphant NHL Return with the Winnipeg Jets

In a headline that stunned fans across the continent, former Chicago Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews has officially announced his return to the National Hockey League—this time with the Winnipeg Jets. The 32‑year‑old forward, who had been playing the past season with the Arizona Coyotes, signed a two‑year, $8 million contract that will see him rejoin the NHL’s fast‑moving ranks and inject veteran leadership into one of the league’s most promising young cores.

Why this move matters

Toews is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished and respected players in modern hockey. Drafted 6th overall by the Blackhawks in 2006, he helped lift the franchise to four Stanley Cup championships (2010, 2013, 2015, 2017), earned two Olympic gold medals (2010, 2014), and amassed 1,001 NHL games, 538 points, and 3,058 penalty minutes before his brief departure. His return to the NHL comes at a critical juncture for the Jets, who are still seeking to build a cohesive unit around top prospects Connor Hellebuyck, Blake Wheeler, and Brandon Montour.

In the past 12 months, Toews had been a free‑agent in the off‑season and had trained with the Coyotes, but his contract with Arizona expired after a single season (2022‑23) in which he recorded 28 goals and 51 assists in 74 games. “We’ve watched Jonathan’s game evolve over the years,” said Jets General Manager Todd Boehler. “His chemistry, vision, and leadership will be a game‑changer for our club.”

The contract details

While the Jets’ press release did not disclose a full breakdown of the deal, third‑party reports suggest a two‑year, $8 million contract with a clause for a one‑year extension based on performance. Toews will join the Jets’ front line as a power‑play center and will be expected to play 30‑35 games per season, with a role in the playoffs and potential for a key spot in the 2024 Winter Classic.

Toews’ contract is comparable in structure to his previous deals, which have always included a mix of performance bonuses and a cap‑hit designed to keep him in the league for a few years. “We’re excited to bring in a player who brings a winning mentality, and who can mentor the young guys on the roster,” Boehler added.

What to expect on the ice

Toews’ playing style has always blended physicality with a high hockey IQ. He’s been praised for his ability to read the play, position himself effectively, and deliver a lethal shot from the point. With a career‑high 11 goals in 22 games in the 2021‑22 season, Toews has demonstrated that he is still a potent offensive threat.

“We’re looking forward to seeing him in action with the Jets,” said Head Coach Paul Maurice. “Jonathan is a player who can help shape the way our young centers approach the game, and his presence will elevate the entire team.”

Maurice hinted that Toews would be a key contributor on the power play, where the Jets have historically struggled. “I believe he can be a catalyst for our power‑play units, and he will also help our defensemen get better puck‑handling.”

Beyond the numbers

One of the most compelling aspects of Toews’ return is the community work he’s set to resume. While with the Blackhawks, Toews spearheaded the “Toews For Kids” charity, which has raised over $2 million for youth programs across the United States. With the Jets’ broader commitment to outreach, Toews will serve as a “community ambassador,” working with the “Jets Foundation” to expand the reach of youth hockey in Manitoba.

He also plans to take part in the league’s “NHL Return” program—a new initiative that aims to re‑introduce former players who have taken time away from the sport, either for personal reasons or to recover from injury, and help them acclimate back into the NHL’s rigorous schedule. The Jets’ organization has worked closely with the NHL on this program, which includes a 12‑week preseason training camp and a mentorship component for each returning player.

What fans are saying

On social media, the announcement was met with a wave of excitement. The Jets’ official Instagram account posted a photo of Toews in a Jets jersey, captioned: “We’re thrilled to welcome Jonathan to the family.” Fans in Winnipeg have taken to Twitter, sharing nostalgic memories of Toews’s time with the Blackhawks, and praising the Jets for acquiring such a highly regarded player. A fan poll on the Jets’ website revealed that 78% of respondents were excited about the addition, citing leadership and experience as key reasons.

The bigger picture

While the Jets are not on a trajectory to win the Stanley Cup this season, they are building a foundation that could see them become a powerhouse in the coming years. Toews’ addition could be the final piece in that puzzle. By adding a proven, veteran presence, the organization hopes to nurture the next generation of talent and create a culture of winning that echoes the Blackhawks’ championship run.

The Jets will host a pre‑season exhibition game on October 2nd, where Toews will get his first taste of NHL action with his new teammates. According to the organization, the first game will be a “warm‑up” for Toews, giving him an opportunity to adjust to the new team's system before the regular season.

In summary, Jonathan Toews is back in the NHL, and he's doing so with the Winnipeg Jets—a club eager to benefit from his experience, leadership, and on‑ice vision. The move signals the Jets’ ambition to build a strong, veteran‑led core, and it underscores Toews’ enduring legacy as one of the most respected figures in the sport.

Links for further reading

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[ https://www.sportingnews.com/ca/nhl/winnipeg-jets/news/jonathan-toews-opens-nhl-return/01c6799f5bc6a6722448d01b ]