NHL Trade Rumors: Winnipeg Jets eyeing $26,000,000 worth ex-Blackhawks captain amidst return speculation

The Winnipeg Jets are reportedly interested in Jonathan Toews as he considers returning to the NHL. This development comes after Toews hinted at a potential return during an interview with GQ magazine in December.

On Friday, Independent NHL insider Avalanche Forever tweeted,

"It sounds like Jonathan Toews is looking to make an NHL return sooner rather than later, he is a perfect middle six fit for the Colorado Avalanche. Winnipeg appears to be the frontrunner but hopefully management is taking a look."

On Jan. 21, The Athletic's Murat Ates shared an update on X. He wrote that the Winnipeg Jets would be interested in Jonathan Toews if he returns to the League.

Toews, a 36-year-old free agent, with a net worth of $26 million according to "celebritynetworth.com," stepped away from hockey in August 2023 to focus on his health. In November, he revealed that he was undergoing a Panchakarma detox in India to aid his recovery.

Winnipeg Jets general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff has confirmed discussions with Toews’ representatives. Speaking to Mike McIntyre and Murat Ates, he shared,

"Certainly if he's progressing to that point in time, it would be a real welcome conversation to see if there's a fit both ways. I think it would be a great story for his career, too... Not that he needs another story to his career. But I think he's proud of his roots and would be an interesting fit...We haven't chatted in the last little while, but I certainly had some conversations with his representatives with respect to where things were."

Toews last played in the 2022-23 season, recording 15 goals and 31 points in 53 games. He has spent his entire 15-year career with the Chicago Blackhawks, tallying 372 goals and 883 points in 1,067 games.

Winnipeg Jets GM mentioned that Jonathan Toews's return is "a slower process"

A three-time Stanley Cup winner, Jonathan Toews is known for his leadership and two-way skills. He also won the Conn Smythe and Frank Selke Trophies. However, Cheveldayoff noted any return would take time as Toews continues to evaluate his health.

"I think he’s going to have to push himself to get his body to respond and see how it responds. I think there’s a lot of layers yet from that standpoint." Cheveldayoff as quoted by Ates.

Adding that "(Toews return is) a slower process".

Toews’ eight-year, $84 million contract with the Blackhawks ended after the 2022-23 season. The team announced they would not re-sign him. The Winnipeg Jets remain a strong contender to sign him if he decides to return.