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Jets Weigh Surprising Option with Hall of Famer

Originally posted on NHL Trade Talk | By Old Prof | Last updated Feb 9, 2026 12:01 AM ET

The Winnipeg Jets’ offseason gets a little more interesting when you toss Jonathan Toews into the mix. Should they give him another contract, or let him leave – one way or another? He’s had some frustrating games, but on the other hand, there have been games where he looked like he’d found his game.

That late-season push — four goals in 11 games, including a tidy streak — adds a wrinkle. Now the big question is: hometown lad or not, has he given the team enough to bring him back for one more go?

Toews Brings Huge Experience and Leadership

On the positive side, you can’t overlook the experience he brings. Toews has been through every kind of high-pressure moment hockey has to offer, and teams chasing playoff progress usually need someone who can steady the room. Winnipeg’s younger guys could absolutely benefit from having him around for another year. And that matters more than people admit. He’s been through battles most players only dream of, and that kind of presence tends to rub off.

Don’t forget the hometown love. Winnipeggers have always backed Toews, so bringing him back would land well with the crowd. Stuff like fan support, locker-room chemistry, and a familiar presence can make a quiet difference. And if the Jets give him a clean, defined bottom-six role, they can take advantage of what he’s still got without pushing him too hard. Light minutes, key situations, helping the younger guys—it’s not the worst plan at all.

Toews Production Hasn’t Nearly Been Good Enough

But the other side of the debate is just as real. His numbers this year—seven goals and 12 assists in 56 games—aren’t what the Jets hoped for. Even with that recent scoring bump, the inconsistency has been around all year. And his speed just isn’t what it used to be. That’s become obvious in games where he’s taken penalties simply because he couldn’t keep pace with younger, quicker players. It’s tough to hide that in today’s NHL.

There’s also the question of market demand. If teams aren’t lining up for him, the Jets need to be careful they’re not re-signing him just because it’s convenient. Cap space matters, and using it on a veteran who may not move the needle could limit their options elsewhere.

The Jets Have a Decision to Make: Now What with Jonathan Toews?

In the end, the Jets have an honest decision on their hands. If Toews is willing to take fewer minutes and a friendly contract, there’s a case for keeping him. But if this hot stretch fades and he slides back to where he was earlier, they might be better off turning the page.

This article first appeared on NHL Trade Talk and was syndicated with permission.

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