Three-time Stanley Cup champion Jonathan Toews and the Winnipeg Jets agreed on a one-year, incentive-loaded deal in a homecoming of sorts.
Toews, a Winnipeg native, was more than likely going to sign with the Jets. While some reports have surfaced that he was interested in signing with the Colorado Avalanche, the fact is that Toews, at this point in his career, seemed more inclined to play for his hometown team.
The move, however, is a calculated risk by both parties
Let’s start with Jonathan Toews. He’s an NHL legend. He has nothing left to prove in the NHL. He has the numbers, the hardware, and the Cup to guarantee safe passage to the Hall of Fame. So, signing one more deal is about personal achievement than anything.
Toews is in a situation where he wanted to prove to himself that he could still play at the highest level. He wants to go out on his terms. If that also means winning a Stanley Cup with his hometown team, then so be it.
As for the Winnipeg Jets, Toews makes a talented team even deeper. He’s got the experience, leadership, and skill to make the Jets better than they were this past season. The Jets’ relative playoff inexperience was on display against a Dallas Stars team that outclassed.
Would Jonathan Toews have turned the tide for the Jets?
It’s an intriguing thought to ponder. While Toews on his own would not have won the series for the Jets, he could have influenced the team’s mindset during the series.
That’s why Toews makes sense. He has plenty to offer the Jets, while the Jets offer Toews a chance to go out on top.
Jonathan Toews brings significant question mark for Winnipeg Jets
The biggest question mark surrounding Jonathan Toews revolves around how much he’s got left in the tank. At 37, he’s still young-ish by today’s standards. We’ve seen pro athletes excel into their 40s. Tom Brady won a Super Bowl well into his 40s.
Look at Corey Perry. He’s still banging around the NHL at 40 like he’s 20 years younger.
Modern sports have allowed athletes to extend their careers beyond the traditional barriers of the past. Players are no longer on a steep decline after 30. Some, like Sidney Crosby, can play at an elite level well past 35.
Those examples highlight how Toews could still have plenty in the tank. If he does, the gamble by the Jets and Toews could pay off.
But if it doesn’t, no one will blame Toews for giving it one last go.
There’s no shame in a man trying to prove to himself that he’s still got what it takes to be successful. Toews has earned a shot to go out on his own terms. Hopefully, he’ll still be around for a while to come.
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