2023-08-17 17:35:35
Forward Jonathan Toews closed an important chapter in his life as he bid farewell to Chicago Blackhawks fans in a post on his Instagram account on Thursday.
The former Illinois captain already knew he wouldn’t return to the Hawks, with whom he won three Stanley Cups. Shortly following the last campaign, management had confirmed that they would not grant him a new contract. Also, the Manitoba hockey player reacted with emotion to the end of his long-term association with the club.
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“It’s hard to find the words to describe my 16-year journey in this city that has become my home,” he wrote. To Blackhawks fans, I say it was surreal to witness and be a part of the hockey renaissance in Chicago. There was nothing like the roar in the Madhouse when we scored a big goal to tie or win late in the game. As players, we have tried to connect with you with the love and energy you have given us.
“To the organization, […] all the work you did behind the scenes led to our success on the ice,” he also wrote. You showed up daily to help us achieve our dreams. For that, I will always be grateful.”
The end?
Thus, the 35-year-old skater will not be able to support young Connor Bedard, drafted first in the 2023 amateur auction by the Hawks. Now he only has one step to take before announcing his retirement, the chances of seeing him wearing another uniform are slim. In fact, hockey expert Frank Seravalli of the Daily Faceoff site mentioned earlier this month that Toews was leaning more towards the end of his career. Local media previously reported that the player’s agency – CAA – did not include his name among the list of players granted full autonomy that was passed on to the league.
The one who completed an eight-year, $84 million contract has experienced health problems in recent years. Chronic fatigue syndrome sidelined him for the entire 2020-21 season and during the most recent regular season the effects of COVID-19 slowed him down: he totaled 31 points in 53 outputs.
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