SPORTS

Canada: Jonathan Toews retires after 16 NHL seasons

▪

Read, Watch or Listen

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 2

Center 100%

Sources: 2

WINNIPEG, Manitoba – Jonathan Toews, a three-time Stanley Cup champion and longtime captain of the Chicago Blackhawks, announced his retirement from the National Hockey League on Friday, June 19, 2026, at the Jonathan Toews Sportsplex in his hometown of Winnipeg. The 38-year-old center concluded a 16-season professional career after playing the 2025–26 campaign with the Winnipeg Jets, where he appeared in all 82 regular-season games and recorded 11 goals and 18 assists for 29 points. His final season in Winnipeg followed a two-year absence from professional hockey due to Chronic Immune Response Syndrome and long COVID, a comeback that led to his selection as a finalist for the 2026 Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy, which recognizes perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey. Toews entered the NHL as the third overall pick by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft and scored on his first shot in his debut on October 10, 2007. After a rookie season in which he was a Calder Memorial Trophy finalist, he was named captain of the Blackhawks on July 18, 2008, at age 20, becoming the youngest captain in franchise history and the third-youngest captain in league history at that time. Under his leadership, Chicago won Stanley Cup championships in 2010, 2013, and 2015, and Toews captured the 2010 Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff most valuable player after posting 29 points in 22 games. Over his career, he appeared in 137 playoff games and recorded 119 postseason points, adding to a résumé that established him as one of the most decorated players of his era.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

2006 Toews drafted third overall Chicago
Oct 2007 Scores on first NHL shot
Jul 2008 Named Blackhawks captain at 20
2010 Leads Blackhawks to Stanley Cup
2013 Captains Chicago to second championship
2015 Secures third Stanley Cup title
2023 Steps away citing health concerns
2025-26 Plays full season with Jets
Jun 19 2026 Announces retirement in Winnipeg

Why This Matters to You

Jonathan Toews' retirement marks the end of an era in NHL history. His resilience, after a two-year hiatus due to health issues, is a testament to the human spirit. If you're a hockey fan, his career is a reminder of the dedication and perseverance it takes to excel in the sport.

The Bottom Line

Toews leaves behind a legacy of leadership and sportsmanship in the NHL. His journey, from being the youngest captain in Blackhawks history to a three-time Stanley Cup champion, is worth celebrating. Send this to someone who appreciates the grit and determination it takes to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.