Even though three-time Stanley Cup champion Jonathan Toews posted a touching farewell to Chicago, Blackhawks supporters, and teammates on his Instagram page, he might not be hanging up his skates just yet.
Jay Zawaski of CHGO Sports reports that Toews’ social media post was not an admission that he was hanging up his skates and that the 35-year-old forward is planning to make a comeback soon.
“I’m told this is NOT a retirement statement,” Zawaski tweeted. “My understanding is that he will skip the 2023-24 season and wants to play in 2024-25. Statement from Toews expected soon.”
After Toews’ name did not appear on the list of free-agent players that CAA, the company that represents Toews, provided to the NHL before the start of free agency on July 1, it was rumored in mid-July that Toews would retire. Toews has not submitted any papers on his retirement to the league office.
Toews’ former teammate Patrick Kane appears to be taking the same path if he decides to take a year off and return in 2024. Kane’s agent previously stated the 34-year-old forward wouldn’t sign until well after the 2023 season had begun.
Toews ranks third in game-winning goals (69), fifth in postseason goals (45) and postseason points (119), and sixth in goals (372) and points (883) among the Blackhawks’ all-time records. In addition, he has won three Stanley Cups, two Olympic gold medals, a gold medal in the World Cup of Hockey, the Conn Smythe Trophy, and the Selke Trophy.
In 2008, Toews was appointed team captain, making him the third-youngest player in the NHL. The longest captaincy in Blackhawks history is his 15-year tenure.