The “Captain Serious” era in the Windy City may have ended, but the emotions are just beginning to peak. This Monday, Jonathan Toews makes his highly anticipated return to the United Center as the Winnipeg Jets take on the Chicago Blackhawks.
For the first time in his legendary career, Toews will enter the building as a visitor—and he’s doing so while playing his best hockey of the year.
A Homecoming Built on Legacy
Toews spent 15 seasons as the heartbeat of the Blackhawks. Drafted third overall in 2006, he transformed the franchise, leading them to three Stanley Cup titles and serving as captain for 15 years. His resume in Chicago is nothing short of Hall-of-Fame caliber:
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1,067 Games Played
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372 Goals & 883 Points
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2010 Conn Smythe Trophy
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2013 Frank Selke Trophy
“It’ll be very emotional,” Toews admitted to NHL.com. “I want to play well and do my best, but those ones are always tough to focus on the task at hand with a lot going on around you.”
Heating Up at the Right Time
The 37-year-old center isn’t just returning for a standing ovation; he’s returning as a threat. After a two-year hiatus to focus on his health, Toews has found his stride with the Jets. He has been on a tear lately, tallying four goals and seven points in his last nine games.
Currently sitting at 18 points on the season, Toews noted that he is glad the game fell later in the schedule, allowing him to build his game to a level where he can truly compete against his former squad.
High Stakes in the Western Conference
Beyond the sentiment, this is a crucial matchup for both teams.
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The Winnipeg Jets have successfully shook off an 11-game slump, earning points in five straight contests.
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The Chicago Blackhawks are currently fighting to stay in the hunt, trailing the San Jose Sharks by six points for the final wild-card position.
While Toews previously faced Chicago in Winnipeg earlier this season, Monday marks the true “closure” for the city that saw him raise three banners. For Toews, it’s a chance to recognize what the game meant to the fans and the inspiration those championship teams provided.
“I’m looking forward to going back there, playing that game, and kind of reliving those moments,” said Toews.
