Jonathan Toews retires from NHL after three Stanley Cups and comeback with Winnipeg Jets

Jonathan Toews announced his retirement on Friday. The move ends a decorated career in the NHL that featured three Stanley Cup wins, two Olympic gold medals and a successful return to the league last season with the Winnipeg Jets. Toews had been away from the league for two years prior to that return as he dealt with health concerns. His contributions on the ice and his leadership made him a respected figure across the hockey world.

Overcoming health challenges for a final season

The 38-year-old center came back to play in 2025-26 after sitting out two years with Chronic Immune Response Syndrome and long COVID. Despite the extended time away, he showed he could still compete at a high level. He took part in all 82 games for his hometown Jets and finished with 11 goals and 18 assists. Playing every game in a full season is a tough task for any player.

For Jonathan Toews, it represented a successful return and allowed him to contribute steadily throughout the year. This season gave him the chance to play in front of fans in Manitoba and wrap up his time on the ice in a place that holds personal significance after his long battle with illness.

A championship legacy with the Blackhawks

Jonathan Toews played 15 seasons for the Chicago Blackhawks and served as their captain during some of the franchise’s best years. He helped lead the team to Stanley Cup titles in 2010, 2013, and 2015. In the first of those championship runs, Toews won the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player of the playoffs.

He ended his career with 383 goals and 529 assists in 1,149 regular-season games. Throughout his time in the league, he was known as a top two-way forward who contributed on both offense and defense. His well-rounded game and ability to perform in big moments helped define his reputation as a complete player and leader.

International accomplishments for Team Canada

Jonathan Toews had a strong record when playing for Canada on the world stage. He earned Olympic gold in 2010 and 2014, victories that came during the prime of his career. He also won the World Cup in 2016, the world championship in 2007, and consecutive world junior titles in 2006 and 2007. These wins showed his ability to excel in different tournaments and age groups. Representing his country added important chapters to his story as a champion at every level of the sport.

Full circle moment

Jonathan Toews' decision to join the Jets for one last year created a full-circle return home for the Manitoba native. It allowed one of the province’s most accomplished hockey players to complete his journey in familiar surroundings before retiring from the game. After spending many years in Chicago, coming back to Winnipeg for the 2025-26 season gave Toews and his fans a chance to share one more year together. This homecoming provided a fitting end to a career filled with hard work and success.