Photo credit: James Carey Lauder-Imagn Images
After being included in many trade rumors, the Winnipeg Jets forward Jonathan Toews finally set the record straight on his future in the NHL.
Toews returned to the league after a long absence, signing a one-year deal to play in his hometown with the Jets.
Despite his veteran status, the 37-year-old centre has shown he still has plenty left in the tank during this comeback season.
Career-wise, he has always been defined by winning, and the Jets hoped that veteran pedigree would rub off on their locker room.
Over his NHL career, Toews has lifted three Stanley Cups, but a fourth in Winnipeg feels like a long shot right now.
The Jets are currently sitting 11 points out of a playoff spot after a devastating 11-game winless streak crippled their season.
Still, Toews is not looking for an easy exit to a contender despite the mounting losses in Manitoba. In a new interview, he opened up about the trade rumors surrounding him and the next chapter of his NHL career.
Jonathan Toews opens up on NHL future
In a recent interview with The Athletic's Murat Ates, Toews made it clear he has no intention of waiving his full no-movement clause before the trade deadline:
"I wouldn't consider going anywhere. I want to keep playing for this team."
General Manager Kevin Cheveldayoff will likely look to move other pieces like Luke Schenn or Gustav Nyquist to recoup assets instead.
Logan Stanley also remains a name to watch, though the big defenseman has expressed a desire to stay put for now.
While some wonder if Toews would ever consider a move to Montreal given his mother's Quebec roots, he remains committed to Winnipeg.
But in the end, the veteran is determined to turn things around and believes the Jets are closer to winning than the standings suggest.
Also read on Puck Reporter :
Game abandoned mid-play for exceptional reason in the KHL
Game abandoned mid-play for exceptional reason in the KHL