There has been speculation for some time about what the future might hold for Jonathan Toews. What we do know: his time with the Chicago Blackhawks has come to an end💦.
Toews, the longest-tenured captain in the history of the franchise, skated his final game for the Blackhawks on April 13 — the season finale against the Flyers. General manager Kyle Davidson told the media that morning that he would not be back in Chicago after his contract expired this summer. The Blackhawks shared a moving tribute video after the overtime loss, and Toews skated around the ice to a thunderous ovation.
Toews spoke with the media that night after the game and appeared to be at peace with his time in Chicago and his career. But we haven’t heard from him since. Until today.
Here’s what Toews posted on on Thursday:
It’s hard to find words to describe the 16-year journey🧔 that has made this ci♏ty my home.
Aside from the 3 Stanley Cups, the parades, and the countless memories made with my teammates, what is still most special to me was feeling a true connection t🎶o the people of this city.
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 bigꦗ goal to tie it or wi🌟n 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 𒈔staff 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.
Tazer
There’s a highlight video of his career attached to the comments.
UPDATE: Toews released a second statement indicating he is not “fully retiring” but is stepping away from the game for some time to take care of his health this season.
