Blackhawks Announce Jonathan Toews Not Likely Be Re-Signed

Chicago Blackhawks General Manager Kyle Davidson announced on Thursday that the team will not re-sign captain Jonathan Toews. 

The development means that Toews, whose contract is set to expire at the end of this season, will become an unrestricted free agent for the first time in his NHL career.

Davidson said it would be difficult for him to summarizing everything Toews has done for the organization and the memories he has provided.

“Toews will forever be known as Chicago’s captain, the longest-tenured captain in Chicago sports history, and one of the greatest players in team history,” he said.

He has won three Stanley Cups, a Conn Smythe, and an Olympic gold medal, all in a Blackhawks jersey.

Toews, 34, has spent 16 years in Chicago, earning 882 points (371 goals, 511 assists) in 1,066 regular-season games going into the season finale.

He also had 119 points (45 goals, 74 assists) in 137 postseason contests and helped the Blackhawks win three Stanley Cups, winning the Conn Smythe in 2010.

Toews took up the leadership role on July 18, 2008, becoming the third-youngest captain in NHL history at 20 years old.

Thursday’s game against the Philadelphia Flyers will be Toews’ final game with the Blackhawks. While it’s unclear what the future holds for Toews, he has not made an official decision about whether he plans to continue playing.

If he does extend his playing career, he will have to do so with a different team.

Blackhawks fans will have the opportunity to show their appreciation for Toews during the game and give him the sendoff he deserves.

Despite his departure, Toews will forever be a Blackhawk, and the organization and the city of Chicago will be forever grateful for the amazing ride he took them on.

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