After 13 seasons with the Chicago Blackhawks, captain Jonathan Toews played his final game on May 10, 2021. Due to health issues, Toews had been sidelined for the entire 2020-21 NHL season. However, the veteran forward made an emotional return to the ice to bid farewell to his beloved team and fans. Toews’ final game at the United Center was a bittersweet moment for Blackhawks supporters as they cheered and paid tribute to one of their most iconic players. In this article, we will look back on Toews’ impressive career with the Blackhawks and celebrate his legacy as he bids farewell to the team he called home for over a decade.
On Thursday, Chicago Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews played his final game with the team to a sold-out crowd at the United Center who showed their appreciation for his contributions over the years with a standing ovation. Speaking to reporters after the game, Toews reminisced on his time with the team and how it truly is more than just a game. He also mentioned how the rewards of hard work and dedication to the organization, fans and sport can’t be drawn up any better.
Toews also commented on the news that the Blackhawks would not re-sign the forward for another year, stating that there were “absolutely no hard feelings” and that he has nothing but love and gratitude for the organization and everyone involved in it. He acknowledged that it’s a business and that he’s excited about the possibilities of the future.
Toews’ departure from the Blackhawks marks the end of an era that saw the core group of players win the Stanley Cup in 2010, 2013 and 2015. Toews wore a microphone for the NBC Sports Chicago broadcast throughout the game and was cheered on by his teammates and fans alike. A montage honoring his time with the team played on the video board after the game ended, and Toews took one final lap around the rink.
Chicago coach Luke Richardson was impressed by Toews’ final post-game speech, which he hoped resonated with the players. He stated that Toews’ words were, “The juice is worth the squeeze,” and he believes that moving forward, the team will use that experience to push them forward.
Toews has played 1,067 career regular-season games with the Blackhawks, amassing 883 points, and being named captain in 2008. He had 119 points in 137 Stanley Cup Playoff games and will now look toward his future, which may or may not include retiring or playing for another team next season.
As Jonathan Toews skated off the ice for the final time in his iconic Blackhawks uniform, the emotions were evident in the packed crowd of adoring fans. Toews’ contributions both on the ice and off were immeasurable, leading the team to three Stanley Cup championships and serving as a true leader and role model for his teammates. With his departure, the Blackhawks will undoubtedly undergo a period of transition, but Toews’ legacy will never be forgotten. Thank you, Captain Serious, for everything you have done for the Blackhawks and the sport of hockey. You will be sorely missed, but your impact will undoubtedly live on forever.
