Longtime Chicago Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews expressed his determination to return to the NHL for the 2025-26 season, stating he is “100% committed” to making a comeback, according to Pierre LeBrun. Toews informed his agent, Pat Brisson, of his intentions, with Brisson stating he will start contacting NHL teams prior to the free agency window on July 1.

Toews took a hiatus to focus on his health after facing long-term effects of COVID-19 and a chronic inflammatory response syndrome, which led him to step away from the league nearly two years ago. He clarified at that time that his absence was not a retirement but a necessary break for the 2023-24 season, though that absence has carried over to this current season.

The three-time Stanley Cup champion, who has a longstanding career with the Blackhawks, was picked #3 overall in the 2006 NHL Draft and played 15 seasons with the franchise before his break. One of his championships marked a significant victory for the Blackhawks, ending a 47-year championship drought, and he also earned the Conn Smythe Trophy as the MVP during the playoffs of 2010. Additionally, he secured two Olympic gold medals with Team Canada in 2010 and 2014.

LeBrun noted that multiple-year comebacks are not unheard of in the league, citing Gabriel Landeskog, who returned to the Colorado Avalanche during the recent playoffs after a three-year absence due to knee surgery.