Jonathan Toews likely to join Maple Leafs as NHL return sparks mixed reactions

Jonathan Toews , a 37-year-old NHL star and three-time Stanley Cup winner , is planning a return to hockey. He has been away since April 2023 due to health issues caused by long COVID . Now, after months of rest and training, he says he is ready. His agent Pat Brisson confirmed that Jonathan Toews is fully committed to playing next season. With NHL free agency opening on July 1, teams are already showing interest, including the Toronto Maple Leafs .


Jonathan Toews open to joining Toronto Maple Leafs
Jonathan Toews stopped playing in April 2023. He left to focus on his health after long-term effects from COVID-19 made it hard for him to continue. He travelled to different places, looking for treatments. Since then, he has been training privately to prepare for a comeback.


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Jonathan Toews Open to Joining Maple Leafs as Part of Comeback https://t.co/xX8hyerFss via @nhl_tradetalk

— NHL Trade Talk (@nhl_tradetalk) May 31, 2025

On May 29, 2025, NHL insider Pierre LeBrun shared that Pat Brisson, Toews’s agent, said Toews will be ready for offers starting July 1. Brisson also said that Toews is open to all teams. One of them is the Toronto Maple Leafs. This was also confirmed by hockey reporter Nick Alberga from The Leafs Nation.

Toronto Maple Leafs General Manager Brad Treliving spoke after the season ended in May 2025. He said the team’s “DNA” needs to change. He added that the Maple Leafs need leaders — players who know how to win. Treliving did not name Toews directly but said the team is looking for experienced veterans.


Also Read: Veteran Jonathan Toews Ready For NHL Return With Maple Leafs Reportedly In The Mix


Jonathan Toews could bring leadership to the Maple Leafs' locker room
Jonathan Toews has played 1,067 NHL games. With the Chicago Blackhawks, he won the Stanley Cup three times; he also received the Selke Trophy, presented to the top defensive forward in the league. Many think he still possesses great leadership, even if he hasn't played in more than a year.

Ottawa Senators captain Brady Tkachuk once declared Toews to be among the most admired players in hockey. Should Toews join the Maple Leafs, he could be employed in depth capacity, like as third-line center. His knowledge could benefit the squad under tense postseason games.

There are still questions about his health. But those close to him say he feels strong and is ready to return.