The former Chicago Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews is signing with the Winnipeg Jets ahead of the 2024-25 NHL season. After a two-season health absence, Toews is back in the league and Connor Bedard’s organization reacted with a powerful statement.

Spread the news: three-time Stanley Cup champion Toews is finally back in the NHL. His return will elevate the number of active players with three Cups to seven. However, he will be joining his hometown Jets, who have yet to hoist Lord Stanley for the first time. Perhaps the homegrown kid turned veteran is exactly the missing piece to Winnipeg’s puzzle.

While Bedard and the Blackhawks would’ve loved to welcome their former captain back, their chances of signing him were never particularly strong. Now, Toews is back in the Central Division, where he’ll face Chicago often—bringing mixed feelings to fans in the Windy City. However, shortly after news of Toews’ official return broke, the Hawks issued a heartfelt message.

Statement

“The entire Blackhawks organization would like to congratulate Jonathan and welcome him back to the NHL,” the Blackhawks’ statement read. “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.

Jonathan Toews #19 of the Chicago Blackhawks speaks to the media following a game against the Philadelphia Flyers at United Center on April 13, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois.

“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.”

Impending decision

While the Blackhawks are excited to see Toews back on the ice after the long journey their former captain has undergone, they have more urgent matters to address. Chief among them, giving Connor Bedard the help he needs heading into his third NHL season.

On that note, reports by Chicago Sun-Times‘ Ben Pope state the Blackhawks will be terminating T.J. Brodie’s contract after a head-scratching production in his first year with Chicago. Now, the Hawks are set to part ways with Brodie, who was expected to make $3.225 million (including a $2.45M bonus) during the 2025-26 campaign.