Blackhawks GM offers ex-captain Jonathan Toews an open invitation for another stint

NHL star Jonathan Toews may have retired, but the Chicago Blackhawks are already planning his return in another way. General manager Kyle Davidson confirmed the organization wants its former captain back for a ceremonial stint.

Davidson spoke on Friday during Patrick Kane‘s introductory press conference. He said the team hopes Toews eventually signs a contract to retire as a Blackhawk.

“I think those things are always things you certainly consider, and I think it’s something we would love to have Jonathan back and bring him back,” Davidson said. “We did it with Marian Hossa, so I think it’s nothing set in stone or anything, but I think it’s a likely path that we’ll go down.”

“It’s a guy we just want to recognize and make sure that he’s honored like he was. The fans got to send him off in a special way with his last game there when Winnipeg visited, but certainly having him back and having him back with 88 back in a Blackhawks sweater would be a pretty exciting thing too, to have them both back in the building as Blackhawks.”

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Davidson added that no plans are finalized. However, he stressed Toews remains a lifelong member of the franchise.

“Jonathan is a Blackhawk for life,” Davidson said. “Everything he’s contributed to this city, the love and respect he has from the organization and the fans, it’s just unparalleled for these guys that were part of those three Stanley Cups.”

He then added, “We look forward to welcoming him back for sure.”

Toews announced his retirement on June 19 after completing his comeback season with the Winnipeg Jets. The former captain played all 82 regular-season games, recording 11 goals and 18 assists.

His NHL career ended with 1,149 regular-season games, 383 goals, 529 assists, and 912 points. He also produced 119 points in 137 playoff games while helping Chicago win three Stanley Cups.

Patrick Kane’s return makes a Jonathan Toews reunion possible

Davidson’s comments gained extra significance because Kane has already returned to Chicago. The former MVP signed a two-year, $16 million contract this offseason.

“When Patrick [Kane] departed a couple years ago, we were in a totally different spot as a franchise,” Davidson said. “We were much more at the outset of this whole project. Now that we’ve got some of these draft picks that have entered and established themselves in the NHL… the time was right with what he provides.”

Kane’s arrival comes during a new phase for the rebuilding Blackhawks. Connor Bedard signed a five-year, $75 million extension but will miss the opening 18 games after shoulder surgery. Veterans like Kane, Tyler Bertuzzi, Teuvo Teravainen, Ian Cole, and Bowen Byram will now carry greater responsibility while younger players continue developing.

So, honoring Toews makes perfect sense. He captained Chicago to Stanley Cups in 2010, 2013, and 2015 while becoming one of the franchise’s greatest leaders. His Conn Smythe Trophy, Selke Trophy, and consistent two-way play defined an era.

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A ceremonial return would not change the roster. It would reconnect the Blackhawks with the leaders who shaped their modern history. With Kane already back in Chicago, welcoming Toews one final time would provide a fitting bridge between the championship past and the franchise’s next chapter led by Bedard.