The hockey world is buzzing with anticipation as a familiar name is set to make his long-awaited return to the NHL. Jonathan Toews, the veteran center and former Chicago Blackhawks captain, has officially confirmed his commitment to resume his career next season.

This announcement has sent shockwaves through the league, particularly in Montreal, where rumors of a potential union with the Canadiens have intensified in recent days. With Toews’ agent now fielding calls from interested teams, the possibility of seeing him don the Habs jersey has become a real talking point among fans and analysts alike.

After stepping away from the game in April 2023, Toews has spent months preparing for this comeback, determined to prove that he still has plenty to offer at the highest level. His leadership, experience, and two-way prowess could be exactly what a young team like the Canadiens needs as they continue to build for the future. As speculation swirls and excitement builds, all eyes are on Kent Hughes and the Montreal front office to see if they will make a move that could reshape the team’s identity and spark a new era in Quebec.

Dec 13, 2022; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Blackhawks forward Jonathan Toews (19) skates against the Washington Capitals at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Sabau-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Jamie Sabau-Imagn Images

The name Jonathan Toews has been heavily linked to Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens over the past few days.

Journalist Arpon Basu has even gone quite far on this matter, something he rarely does.

That said, before anything else, before even thinking about signing Toews, it was obviously necessary to confirm his return to the NHL..

And that has just been confirmed!

Confirmed: Jonathan Toews will return to the National Hockey League!

With that now known, Kent Hughes and the Canadiens can indeed continue their efforts to try to bring him to Montreal, if that’s truly what they want.

“Jonathan Toews reached out to his agent Pat Brisson to inform him he’s 100 percent committed to coming back to the NHL next season. Just spoke with Brisson, who says he will start taking calls from NHL teams on Toews now leading up to July 1.

Toews, 37, last played in April 2023. He’s been working out the last several months to get himself ready for this comeback.”

– Pierre LeBrun

This is a major development in this case.

Darren Dreger also confirms that Toews will generate a lot of interest in the NHL.

We’re definitely looking forward to seeing what happens with him-and especially, we’re curious to see what kind of player he can still be today.

Do you think he can still be a solid NHL centerman?