The latest Jonathan Toews update is encouraging, but time remains the biggest hurdle for a return before the end of the season.
Chicago Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews has been sidelined since the NHL All-Star break, which has only added intrigue to what his future holds. With his contract expiring at the end of the season, Blackhawks fans remain hopeful to see Toews back on the ice before the conclusion of the 2022-23 season.
Blackhawks head coach Luke Richardson provided an update on Toews' status ahead of Sunday night's game against the Vancouver Canucks.
Richardson said Toews has taken that next step and was on the ice skating during the team's long road trip that concluded Saturday. Toews was also on the ice Saturday and Sunday, which seems to indicate the captain is ramping up hockey activities as the NHL regular season winds down.
The Blackhawks expect to know more about Toews' status later in the week. With no practices scheduled over a week staggered with games, the Richardson will likely provide some sort of development in the coming days.
Reports just over a week ago indicated that Toews is seriously considering retirement following the conclusion of this season. Should he make his way back on the ice before the end of the year, it would undoubtedly be a special moment for fans wanting to see their captain in a Blackhawks sweater at least one more time before the uncertainty of the offseason sets in.
Time is of the essence, however, as the Blackhawks only have nine games remaining on the schedule. They'll be back in action Tuesday when the Dallas Stars visit the United Center at 7:30 PM CT.
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