NHL: Philadelphia Flyers at Chicago Blackhawks Philadelphia Flyers goaltender Felix Sandstrom (32) makes a save on Chicago Blackhawks center Jonathan Toews (19) during the first period at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images

‘Welcome’: Chicago Blackhawks send Jonathan Toews message after NHL return

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Jordan Sigler | Last updated Jun 20, 2025 5:26 PM ET

Jonathan Toews is set to return to the ice for the first time since he left the Chicago Blackhawks in 2023. Per multiple reports, Toews is signing with the Winnipeg Jets on a one-year deal worth $2 million plus incentives.

Chicago drafted Toews with the No. 3 pick in the 2006 draft, winning the 2010, 2013, and 2015 Stanley Cups with the organization. He earned six All-Star appearances during his time with the Blackhawks and won the Conn Smythe Trophy in 2010.

Toews, 37, missed the last two seasons as the forward sat out for health reasons after the Blackhawks announced they would not re-sign him at the end of 2023.

The Chicago Blackhawks sent Jonathan Toews a message

On Friday, Chicago sent Toews a message of congratulations for making a return to the NHL.

“The entire Blackhawks organization would like to congratulate Jonathan and welcome him back to the NHL,” the Blackhawks wrote via Ben Pope of the Chicago Sun-Times. “The work he’s done over the past two years to make his return is a testament to his resiliency and determination — the same qualities that our fans fell in love with and continue to define him as a player.

“The NHL is better with Jonathan on the ice, and we’re excited to celebrate him when he returns to the United Center with Winnipeg this season.”

Blackhawks statement on Jonathan Toews' signing with the Jets:

"The entire Blackhawks organization would like to congratulate Jonathan and welcome him back to the NHL. The work he's done over the past two years to make his return is a testament to his resiliency and…

— Ben Pope (@BenPopeCST) June 20, 2025

Some Blackhawks fans online hoped the legend would return to Chicago. He might sign with the team before he retires. But for now, he’s joining a team that can compete for a championship in the upcoming season.

NHL: Philadelphia Flyers at Chicago Blackhawks Chicago Blackhawks center Jonathan Toews (19) plays in his last game as a Blackhawk against the Philadelphia Flyers during the first period at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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