Not long ago, Jonathan Toews made it clear that he intended to return to the National Hockey League in 2025-26. Toews last played with the Chicago Blackhawks in the final game of the 2022-23 season. Since then, he's been recovering and preparing his body for a potential return to action.

Before anybody knew he was going to take some time away, the Chicago Blackhawks had already declared that they would not bring Toews back. Everybody, including Toews, seemed to be at peace with that decision.

Once he became serious about signing, plenty of good teams started to line up. However, one team was deemed to be the favorite for a variety of reasons. That team is the Winnipeg Jets. 

Of course, Winnipeg is one of the best teams in the NHL. They fell out during the second round to an excellent Dallas Stars team, but that doesn't take away from the President's Trophy-winning season that they had. 

Signing with an elite team that needed center help up and down the lineup made the most sense for Toews. He would be able to play on any of the lines outside of the first, which is manned by Mark Scheifele. 

The Jets are also the hometown NHL team for Toews. He is from St. Vital, so going back to Manitoba always made sense for him. 

On Friday, that dream of playing in the NHL at home became a reality for Toews. He signed a one-year deal with the Jets, but the contract can't be registered until July 1st. The team already made it official on social media. 

Winnipeg Jets (@NHLJets) on XThe kid from St. Vital is coming home.

Winnipeg Jets (@NHLJets) on XThe kid from St. Vital is coming home.

Getting over the hump in the playoffs has been an issue for the Jets in the past, including this year. A guy like Toews, who has had many deep runs in the postseason, will be a great help.

In addition to winning the Stanley Cup three times, Toews also has two Olympic Gold Medals and one World Cup of Hockey championship. The man has done a lot of winning. Character and leadership have been a big part of his game. Winnipeg could use some more of that after taking a nice step in 2024-25.

On a personal note, this is a win for Toews. He will finally return after being gone for so long. It is also great for the Jets, who need a proven winner with an elite mentality in the locker room. 

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