Why Jonathan Toews is the most beloved captain in Blackhawks history

Longtime Chicago Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews will long be remembered for his leadership on and off the ice with the team.
Philadelphia Flyers v Chicago Blackhawks
Philadelphia Flyers v Chicago Blackhawks | Stacy Revere/GettyImages

For more than a decade, Jonathan Toews wore the "C" on his chest and carried the weight of the Blackhawks franchise on his back. He was loved by fans in Chicago.

The 37-year-old played for the Blackhawks for 15 seasons, leading them to three Stanley Cups (2010, 2013, 2015) and was named one of the NHL's 100 Greatest Players in 2017.

Now playing for his hometown Winnipeg Jets, Toews' impact in Chicago is still felt — and is missed by many Hawks fans.

A Leader from Day One

Toews was named captain of the Blackhawks in 2008 at just 20 years old, becoming one of the youngest captains in NHL history. His calm, focused personality earned him the nickname "Captain Serious." He didn't seek the spotlight. He showed up every day and led by example, and inspired the next generation of hockey players.

"I don't think it's even possible to measure the impact a guy like him has just because of how he contributes off the ice as well as winning games on the ice in so many different ways," said Blackhawks defenseman Connor Murphy. "Off the ice, whether you're a new guy or a guy who has been around awhile, he knows when to speak and say the right things that's going to pick a team up at the right time or keep it going at the right time. We all learn so much off of him and his leadership or his presence and how much he means to the organization and to each one of his teammates."

Building a Dynasty

In 2010, Toews led the Blackhawks to their first Stanley Cup in 49 years. He was named playoff MVP, recording 29 points (7 goals, 22 assists) in 22 games. That same year, he joined the Triple Gold Club — winning a Stanley Cup, Olympic gold medal, and World Championship — the youngest player to ever do so.

He went on to win two more Stanley Cups in 2013 and 2015. He wasn't always the one scoring the big goal, but he always made the right play. He won faceoffs, and was also a penalty killer for the Hawks. He never backed down and always stood his ground.

In 2013, he won the Selke Trophy as the NHL's best defensive forward. His two-way play and steady leadership made him a key piece of the Blackhawks' core.

An Off Ice Leader

Toews didn't just lead the Blackhawks on the ice. He led them off the ice as well. A lot of young players looked up to him.

"It's something that you can't teach. He's a born leader and he's someone who comes to the rink every day ready to work — on the ice, off the ice, at dinner, at lunch, whenever it is," said former Blackhawks defenseman Riley Stillman. "He's just all the way through a leader and a special player. You've seen that over the course of his career. He's huge for our team, he's huge for our organization, he's huge for our city and he's an all-around person that you aspire to be."

His leadership stretched beyond hockey. Toews supported charities, environmental causes, and was involved in youth programs. He became a true part of the Chicago community.

Saying Goodbye

In April 2023, the Blackhawks announced they would not re-sign Toews. His final game at the United Center was emotional. There was not a dry tear in the house. Fans cheered for him. Teammates hugged him on the ice. The team honored him with video tributes and the crowd gave a standing ovation.

General manager Kyle Davidson called Toews "one of the greatest players to ever wear the Blackhawks sweater" and mentioned that "He'll be a Blackhawk forever."

Toews later thanked the fans and the city of Chicago in a heartful Instagram post.

Health Issues

Toews missed the last two NHL seasons (His last game was April 13, 2023 — also his final game with the Blackhawks.) due to health issues, including long COVID and chronic immune response. During that time, he foucsed on his health, including traveling to India for a "healing journey."

Now, Toews is preparing for a comeback with his hometown team, the Winnipeg Jets. While Hawks fans hate to see him in a different jersey, their love for the 15-year captain never stopped.

Jonathan Toews isn't just one of the great players to ever play for the Blackhawks. He's a Blackhawks legend. An icon. A leader. Last but not least, a future Hall of Famer. He'll always be in the hearts of Blackhawks fans.