Toews ponders leaving Hawks: 3 landing spots emerge as next NHL destination

Since new general manager Kyle Davidson was appointed at the head of the Blackhawks, fans wanted to know what was going to happen with captain Jonathan Toews and teammate Patrick Kane as a rebuild takes place in Chicago.

Ever since the major changes started happening at the trade deadline, Toews didn’t hide his disappointment, calling the departures of Brandon Hagel and goalie Marc-Andre Fleury “disheartening”. He also mentioned more than once how he has no clue what the future holds in Chicago, which has prompted many insiders and pundits to wonder if Toews will want to be a part of the Hawks’ rebuild. It is believed a move is not out of the question during the upcoming summer and three destinations have come up when it comes to Toews, per the Hockey Writers.

They are all in Canada, with the possibilities of Toews landing with the Winnipeg Jets, Calgary Flames or Edmonton Oilers. Toews has full control over whether or not he will be traded, as he carries a no-movement clause. He and Kane, with one year remaining on their long-term deals at $10.5 million per, are eligible to hit the market as unrestricted free agents in the summer of 2023.

The Blackhawks could be called upon to retain some of his salary, especially since Toews can no longer produce like a first-line center. He remains a strong leader that could benefit from a change of scenery - though it would be weird to see him in a different uniform.

Toews could choose to go to Winnipeg, seeing that he grew up there and loves the community. The Jets traded Andrew Copp at the deadline and with Paul Stastny’s expiring contract ans so a spot could open up for Toews in the middle-six.

As for the Flames, there could be a trade involving Toews and potentially Calgary’s Sean Monahan, who needs a new start. There could be a possibility for a swap with additional picks here.

When it comes to the Oilers, they could be interested in getting Toews and could have room to do it if they’re unable to re-sign Evander Kane. With Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl on board, the Oilers have a real shot at a long Stanley Cup run and this could be a great final chapter for Toews, who would reunite with Duncan Keith.

We’re not saying Toews will come to Canada or will even leave Chicago, but there is a feeling that he is at least considering the possibility of playing elsewhere for 2022-23.

Let’s see if one of those top destinations ends up being his landing spot.