Former Chicago Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews has expressed a desire to return to professional hockey, stating he believes he still has “something left in the tank.” In a recent interview, Toews conveyed his dissatisfaction with how his tenure in Chicago concluded and his interest in exploring opportunities to play again.
Toews, 36, has faced significant health challenges in recent years, including chronic inflammatory response syndrome (CIRS) and long COVID, which led him to miss the entire 2020-21 NHL season and portions of the 2022-23 season. In an effort to address these health issues, Toews embarked on a five-week Ayurvedic healing program in India, involving herbal medicines, yoga, meditation, and a strict diet. He reported significant improvements following this retreat and expressed optimism about his health.
Despite these health struggles, Toews returned to the Blackhawks’ lineup after a two-month absence on April 1, 2023. However, on April 13, Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson announced that the team would not re-sign Toews after his contract expired at the end of the season. Subsequently, in August 2023, Toews announced he was not retiring from the NHL but would sit out the 2023–24 season to focus on his health.
As a free agent, Toews is now considering a return to the NHL, seeking a team where he can contribute his experience and leadership. Known for his two-way play, faceoff proficiency, and leadership qualities, Toews’ potential return could provide valuable depth to teams seeking a seasoned center with championship experience.
While no official timeline has been set for his return, Toews’ commitment to his health and passion for the game suggest he is diligently preparing for a potential comeback. Fans and teams alike will be monitoring his progress as he works toward resuming his professional hockey career.
