Winnipeg, MB – After a long and arduous journey back to professional hockey, Jonathan Toews has officially embarked on a fresh chapter in his career, joining his hometown Winnipeg Jets. The 37-year-old Winnipeg native made his debut with the Jets on Thursday night against the Dallas Stars, marking his first NHL game since April 13, 2023.

Toews skated onto the ice to a resounding cheer from a sold-out crowd, a testament to the excitement surrounding his return and his connection to the city. "Just a lot of energy, a lot of excitement. I'm just trying to contain myself there," Toews said of the warm welcome.

The former Chicago Blackhawks captain signed a one-year contract with the Jets on July 1, 2025, signaling his intent to return to the NHL after a two-year hiatus due to health issues. Toews had been struggling with symptoms related to chronic inflammatory response syndrome and long COVID-19.

Toews logged 18:19 of ice time in the Jets' 5-4 loss, playing on the second line with wingers Gustav Nyquist and Nikita Chibrikov. He registered one shot on goal and acknowledged that he is still working to get back to peak game form. "But a lot of room for improvement, a lot of little things I can do better," Toews said.

Jets coach Scott Arniel noted that it took Toews and his teammates some time to find their rhythm in the game, but saw positive changes as the game progressed. "I thought I saw changes in his game in that second period," Arniel said. "He started to have the puck a little bit more, had some looks, that line started to do some things".

Throughout his NHL career, Toews has established himself as one of the league's premier leaders and competitors. Drafted third overall by the Blackhawks in 2006, he quickly ascended to captaincy in 2008, becoming one of the youngest captains in NHL history. During his tenure with the Blackhawks, he led the team to three Stanley Cup championships in 2010, 2013, and 2015. In 2010, he also won the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player in the playoffs.

Beyond his NHL achievements, Toews has also enjoyed a decorated international career, winning gold medals for Canada at the World U-17 Hockey Challenge (2005), the World Junior Championships (2006 and 2007), the World Championships (2007), and the Winter Olympics (2010 and 2014). In 2017, he was named one of the 100 Greatest NHL Players.

Now, Toews is eager to contribute his experience and leadership to the Jets. "My role is still to score, to contribute offensively and also to play well on defense," he said, emphasizing his commitment to being a force in the faceoff circle and on the penalty kill.

His return to Winnipeg is more than just a career move; it's a homecoming. "Having the chance to be here at home in front of my friends, my family and the city of Winnipeg and playing for the Jets, it's a dream," Toews said. The city has embraced him, with many anticipating his positive impact on the team and the community.