Toews Issues Thank You to Blackhawks Organization & Their Fans
It's the end of an era in the windy city as longtime captain Jonathan Toews is moving on from the Chicago Blackhawks.
Toews issues a statement on his Instagram on Thursday:
"It's hard to find words to describe the 16-year journey that has made this city my home.
Aside from the 3 Stanley Cups, the parades, and the countless memories made with my teammates, what is still most special to me was feeling a true connection to the people of this city.
To Blackhawks fans, it was surreal to witness and be a part of the revival of hockey in Chicago. There was nothing like the roar of the Madhouse when we scored a big goal to tie it or win it late in a game. As players, we tried to reciprocate that heart and soul energy we felt from you. I honestly believe it's what made us so tough to beat in the later games of a playoff series. You are the best fans in the world, and I'm so thankful we shared so many special moments together.
To the Blackhawks Organization, the late Rocky, Danny and the Wirtz family, all of my coaches, GM's, athletic and equipment trainers, strength coaches, scouting staff and all those that put it all together. It is not lost on me that all the work you do behind the scenes leads to all of our success on the ice. You showed up every day to help all of us achieve our dreams and for that I am forever grateful.
To my Blackhawks teammates, I consider you all lifelong friends and brothers. We share a bond that's hard to break. Whether you reach the mountain top or not, we can all agree it's grinding through the tough moments together that we'll really miss.
To all of you I say, THANK YOU. You made my time here in Chicago unforgettable."
Aside from the 3 Stanley Cups, the parades, and the countless memories made with my teammates, what is still most special to me was feeling a true connection to the people of this city.
To Blackhawks fans, it was surreal to witness and be a part of the revival of hockey in Chicago. There was nothing like the roar of the Madhouse when we scored a big goal to tie it or win it late in a game. As players, we tried to reciprocate that heart and soul energy we felt from you. I honestly believe it's what made us so tough to beat in the later games of a playoff series. You are the best fans in the world, and I'm so thankful we shared so many special moments together.
To the Blackhawks Organization, the late Rocky, Danny and the Wirtz family, all of my coaches, GM's, athletic and equipment trainers, strength coaches, scouting staff and all those that put it all together. It is not lost on me that all the work you do behind the scenes leads to all of our success on the ice. You showed up every day to help all of us achieve our dreams and for that I am forever grateful.
To my Blackhawks teammates, I consider you all lifelong friends and brothers. We share a bond that's hard to break. Whether you reach the mountain top or not, we can all agree it's grinding through the tough moments together that we'll really miss.
To all of you I say, THANK YOU. You made my time here in Chicago unforgettable."
Tazer
Host of the CHGO Blackhawks podcast Jay Zawaski was told this is NOT a retirement statement. His understanding is that Toews will skip the 2023-24 season and wants to play in 2024-25. Statement from Toews expected soon.
Chicago announced after the season that they will not be re-signing Toews who is now a UFA. Drafted 3rd overall in 2006, the 35 year old has won three Stanley Cups and a Conn Smythe Trophy.
| POLL | ||
Who is your favorite Blackhawk from the most recent Stanely Cup winning teams? | ||
| Jonathan Toews | 32 | 32 % |
| Patrick Kane | 24 | 24 % |
| Marian Hossa | 23 | 23 % |
| Duncan Keith | 21 | 21 % |
| List of polls | ||
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