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Hometown hero, Jonathan Toews, is coming home.
Toews, the former captain of the Chicago Blackhawks, hasn't been on the ice since the 2022-23 season as he dealt with Chronic Immune Response Syndrome. His final game with the Blackhawks was on April 14, 2023, and he hasn't played since.
Late last year, Toews went on a healing journey in India where he underwent a detox, in hopes of getting his syndrome under control.
"The 5-week Panchakarma was a grind, but it left me feeling so much lighter and revitalized," said Toews in a post on Instagram. "Aside from the detox treatments, the most powerful aspect was being surrounded by amazing people who have a totally different culture and way of life. It became easy to see I was burning the candle at both ends."
The kid from St. Vital is coming home. pic.twitter.com/8Gh9EmziGQ
— Winnipeg Jets (@NHLJets) June 20, 2025
He never brought up retirement and instead remained an unrestricted free agent.
Today, the Winnipeg Jets announced that 'the kid from St. Vital is coming home' and will join them in the 2025-26 season.
"I'm grateful to be making my return to the NHL with the Winnipeg Jets," Toews said on social media. "It's very special to come home and play in front of my family and friends in Manitoba."
The recent success of the Jets made the decision for Toews easier. "The Jets have been on the rise over the last few seasons and I'm eager to join the group and help however I can."
Toews' former club, the Chicago Blackhawks, sent a warm welcome back to the NHL to the former captain on social media. "The entire Blackhawks organization would like to congratulate Jonathan and welcome him back to the NHL."
His determination to return is something the Blackhawks have seen firsthand. "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."
Reports say his contract can't be registered until July 1.
With files from Angela Peacock