Toews Gives Interested Team Closure Regarding His NHL Future

As per a report by The Athletic’s Pierre LeBrun, it is believed that veteran forward and former NHL star Jonathan Toews has informed the Winnipeg Jets he will not return this season. The Jets were said to be serious about signing Toews, but LeBrun notes, “My understanding is that Toews isn’t planning on coming back this season.”

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For the Jets, this means moving on this season and looking at other trade deadline options. Toews would have been one of the pieces that team might have added in an attempt to boost their depth and hit a low-cost home run if Toews was a difference-maker.

For Towes, this means pushing back any potential return to next season.

Toews’ Return to the NHL Is Not A Given

LeBrun stressed that Toews returning to the NHL is not guaranteed this season or next. He might be feeling better than he’s felt in years, but nothing is set in stone. LeBrun writes, “Don’t ever bet against a guy with the heart of a lion, but all things being equal, if Toews comes back at all to play in the NHL, I think it’s going to be for next season.”

If he does attempt a comeback, the chance to play in his hometown of Winnipeg will make the Jets a legitimate contender to acquire him. It was also said that Toews was extremely touched by all of the interest that teams showed him when it was announced he was thinking about returning. More than the Jets showed interest, and he isn’t taking that for granted.

If Toews does, one day, come back to the NHL, it will be one of the great stories in sports. The 35-year-old battled chronic inflammatory response syndrome (CIRS) and long COVID.

Next: NHL Trade Talk Morning Roundup: Flames, Oilers, Canucks & Caps