As Jonathan Toews embarks on his official return to the NHL after a two-season absence, several teams are knocking on the three-time Stanley Cup champion’s door. Among them, the Toronto Maple Leafs, who hope to add a veteran leader to help out Auston Matthews and company. However, they are not alone in the race and a franchise in a state with no-income-tax has now made its intentions clear.
Toews’ comeback to the league is one of the biggest storylines going into the 2025 free agency period in the NHL. The veteran who led the Chicago Blackhawks to three Stanley Cups in six years during the 2010s is now looking for a new beginning. Matthews and the Maple Leafs are hoping to add an experienced winner, so it could be a match made in heaven. But it won’t be a walk in the park.
On the eve of such a crucial decision, Toews is taking his sweet time. However, he has reportedly narrowed his options to four teams, with an official announcement expected during the NHL Draft weekend on June 27-28th.
Not much has transpired from Toews’ camp regarding the 37-year-old’s stance or preferences, but finances could play a crucial role. In that regard, the emergence of a franchise in a no-income-tax state might prove decisive—and spoil the party for Matthews’ Leafs.
Jonathan Toews #19 of the Chicago Blackhawks looks on against the Edmonton Oilers during the second period at United Center on October 27, 2022 in Chicago, Illinois.
According to insider Darren Dreger, the Tampa Bay Lightning remain in the mix for former Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews, as he inches closer to an NHL return.
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The dogs in the fight
As reported by several insiders around the NHL, Toews has drawn interest from many teams, but he is mainly interested in four contenders.
According to reports, the Winnipeg Jets, Colorado Avalanche, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Tampa Bay Lightning are the four sides in contention for the three-time Stanley Cup champion.
Chasing the Cup
Toews is eyeing another shot at the Cup, and while all four teams present a good shot at next year’s trophy, nailing the decision will be critical for the former Chicago captain.
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At 37, Toews is expected to sign a one-year deal with his next team. But if he misses out on his ultimate goal, he may not have many more chances left. With only a few bullets remaining in the chamber, his decision—expected to be announced at the end of June—will have huge implications.
