On July 1, 2023, Jonathan Toews shared on social media that he would be stepping away from the league for “a bit of a healing journey.”
Well…. He’s back… On May 29, 2025, Pierre Le Brun reported that Toews advised his agent, Pat Brisson, that “he’s 100 percent committed to coming back to the NHL next season” and has provided a list of teams he is willing to go to. So what’s next?
One last cup…
If Toews’ goal is to win another cup, it would make sense for him to set his sights on the Presidents' Trophy-winning Winnepeg Jets team. NHL insider Darren Dreger reported that Toews “may be best suited to make a comeback with his hometown.” Jonathan Toews, now 37 years old, cannot expect a long-term contract and because of his extensive playoff experience, he may help the team reach the cup.
What’s in it for the Blues? – Re-uniting the Schenns
Well, financially speaking, it’s possible. Luke Schenn would have to accept a much lesser role than he did last season, or the Blues would have to find a way to ship out a contract. The Schenn brothers would add more grit to the team, though, and I look forward to seeing whether the Jets re-sign him.
Help guide Toronto…
The Toronto Maple Leafs are among the top teams in the middle of trade rumors. After being eliminated from the playoffs, it seems as though Mitch Marner’s story might be coming to an end, and on May 30, 2025, The Hockey Writers reported that Toronto was one of the top teams interested in Toews. With Toews' playoff history and Toronto’s interest, he could be the perfect match for the team.
What’s in it for the Blues? – Marner?
Probably nothing. Bleedin’ Blue recently reported that the Blues do not have enough cap space to acquire Marner, unless the club trades out a contract or two. That being said, GM Doug Armstrong has been known to make changes when they are least expected.
I owe you…
If Toews is returning to the NHL in hopes of another Stanley Cup appearance, what better team that the Edmonton Oilers? Yardbarkers recent report “Edmonton Oilers are a frontrunner for Jonathan Toews due to one specific Reason” highlights that the Oilers may now be a landing spot for Toews due to his past relationship with Stan Bowman in Chicago. Capwages shows the Oilers are almost $4 million under the cap so, adding Toews may be difficult. That being said, the team has multiple free agents this season.
What’s in it for the Blues? – Trent Frederic
If you’re a Blues fan, then you have heard his name. Raised in the St. Louis area, Trent Frederic plays a tough, gritty game, and he drive’s hard to the net. It’s a name that gets brought up frequently because he embodies the culture of Blues hockey. He could be the extra addition to the third- or fourth-line next season to help the Blues push to that next playoff series.
What about the Blues?
According to Capwages, the Blues have $8.9 million in cap space, and according to Spotrac, Toews was making $10.5 million per year in the final year of his contract that expired in 2023 – 2024. If the Blues wanted to add him, it’s possible as he will likely take a significant pay-cut after missing so much time. Does Jonathan Toews want to wear a note? The Blues need a second line centre. He is a proven star that not only shines on the ice but has been referred to as having a presence off the ice.