Jonathan Toews appears to have made a major decision on his future in the National Hockey League
Since last season, when Chicago Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson confirmed that he would not be bringing back Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews next season, there was plenty of speculation as to what might occur with the pair of 3-time Stanley Cup winners.
Kane underwent surgery this summer and expects to play next season, but we didn't quite know what Toews' plans were. Some had hypothesized that his career would come to an abrupt end amid ongoing health concerns, while others speculated that he might look to sign with a contending team in an attempt to win his 4th career Stanley Cup. There were also some who theorized that Toews would sign with his hometown Winnipeg Jets and end his career at home.
On Thursday, Toews broke his silence when he issued a heartfelt statement to the Chicago Blackhawks organization and its fanbase. Toews emphasized how important the city and the team is to him and thanked everyone for 16 wonderful years in Chicago. He did not, however, openly declare his intent to retire, meaning that we're likely to see him elsewhere next season.
Here's what Toews had to say in his statement:
To Blackhawks fans, it was surreal to witness and be a part of the revival of hockey in Chicago. There was nothing like the roar of the Madhouse when we scored a big goal to tie it or win it late in a game. As players, we tried to reciprocate that heart and soul energy we felt from you. I honestly believe it's what made us so tough to beat in the later games of a playoff series. You are the best fans in the world, and I'm so thankful we shared so many special moments together.
To the Blackhawks Organization, the late Rocky, Danny and the Wirtz family, all of my coaches, GM's, athletic and equipment trainers, strength coaches, scouting staff and all those that put it all together. It is not lost on me that all the work you do behind the scenes leads to all of our success on the ice. You showed up every day to help all of us achieve our dreams and for that I am forever grateful.
To my Blackhawks teammates, I consider you all lifelong friends and brothers. We share a bond that's hard to break. Whether you reach the mountain top or not, we can all agree it's grinding through the tough moments together that we'll really miss.
To all of you I say, THANK YOU. You made my time here in Chicago unforgettable."
Though it felt, at the beginning, that this would be a retirement announcement, no such announcement was made, which should excite his fans, no doubt. Now, the focus will shift to where Toews plans to sign. There's a strong belief that he'll skip the 2023-24 season to focus on his health, but that he plans to return in 2024-25.
| POLL | ||
AOUT 17 | 326 ANSWERS Jonathan Toews appears to have made a major decision on his future in the National Hockey League Where do you think Jonathan Toews should sign this season? | ||
| Winnipeg | 60 | 18.4 % |
| Toronto | 141 | 43.3 % |
| Boston | 33 | 10.1 % |
| Other | 92 | 28.2 % |
| List of polls | ||
