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Blackhawks Legend Jonathan Toews Hints at NHL Comeback

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Antonio Losada | Last updated Dec 31, 2024 6:45 AM ET

Chicago Blackhawks living legend Jonathan Toews isn’t done with hockey just yet.

After stepping away from the game for over a year to focus on his health, the three-time Stanley Cup champion has revealed his intent to make an NHL comeback.

In an interview with GQ's Matthew Roberson published on Sunday, Toews detailed his journey through recovery and told him that he's still thinking about getting some more games under his belt.

“There’s a part of me that really doesn’t feel like my career is over yet,” Toews said. “I think 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.

”I’m going to enjoy every step of the way.”

Toews last played an NHL game on Apr. 13, 2023. Later that year, he announced he wouldn’t compete in the 2023–24 season, citing the need to prioritize his health.

The 36-year-old had long battled chronic immune response syndrome, compounded by symptoms of long COVID, which kept him sidelined for significant portions of previous seasons.

Tonight will be Jonathan Toews’ last game as a Blackhawk❤️ pic.twitter.com/di4fTbr3g6
— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) April 13, 2023

During his time away, Toews embarked on a personal healing journey, which included a five-week Ayurvedic detox in India.

Despite initial skepticism, Toews embraced the traditional healing practices, which he credits with restoring his physical and mental confidence.

“I just kind of kept slowly opening myself up to the possibility that this could be helpful,” Toews said.

Toews’ career has already cemented him as one of the NHL’s greats. With 372 goals and 883 points across 1,067 games, he ranks among the Chicago Blackhawks’ all-time leaders in multiple statistical categories.

The forward also led the Blackhawks to win three Stanley Cups throughout his 14 years in Chicago.

“There’s never any guarantees in life, but I’m going to give it my best shot,” Toews said about his potential return.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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