One of the best feel-good stories in the NHL this season was the return of legendary center Jonathan Toews. The Chicago Blackhawks legend made his comeback with the Winnipeg Jets this year after missing the past two seasons due to Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome.
Unfortunately, neither he or the Jets had the season they expected as the club missed the playoffs just one year after a Presidents trophy winning campaign in the 24-25 season. Toews amassed 11 goals and 18 assists for 29 points in 82 games with the team.
Their is the question over whether the 37 year old Toews would be open to continue playing next season or if this is it for him. Based on Toews’ comments in Winnipeg’s end of season presser, that answer still appears uncertain. However, Toews stated if he were to return in 26-27 that he would be open to doing so with Winnipeg.
Jonathan Toews Can Still Play
Make no mistake, Toews is well past the prime of his career. His stay in the league only has so much time remaining. Nevertheless, what he has been able to do this season completing all 82 games despite having not played since the 22-23 season is impressive. The expectation was Toews would not be able to play every game this year due to the wear and tear the game of hockey has had on his body.
While Toews did not have the production on the ice he hoped for, he affected the game beyond the scoresheet. He was able to do so by being strong in the defensive zone, faceoffs and providing sound leadership to this Jets squad. Given Toews’ lengthy experience, having won three Stanley Cups with the Blackhawks, he became a valued voice in the locker room amongst his teammates.
It would not be surprising to see Toews continue next season. While he could retire as he has nothing left to prove, it is hard to fathom Toews going through all this effort to get back to the NHL and call it after only one year back.
If Toews indeed wants to keep playing for this Jets team, the question is would they want him back? It would appear their would still be a spot for Jonathan on this team in a third line center role where he can have some of the pressure taken off his shoulders and play sheltered minutes.
Winnipeg Jets Aiming for More Next Season
This season was a disappointing one for the Jets as they were expected to remain a playoff contender after such a successful campaign the previous year. While they did lose Nikolaj Ehlers last offseason, the hope was the addition of Toews would help cover for that loss.
This did not happen as the Jets lacked depth contributions throughout their lineup and instead had to rely on their stars of Mark Scheifele, Kyle Connor, Gabriel Vilardi and Josh Morrissey. Not even Connor Hellebucyk in net was enough to carry this Winnipeg team to the postseason.
The Jets will hope for a better season next year. Whether Toews will feature in that equation remains to be seen.
Jonathan Toews Comments on Uncertain Future