Blackhawks’ Jonathan Toews Set to Return From Concussion Thursday Against Oilers
Following a three-day break in between games, the Chicago Blackhawks are slated to welcome back captain Jonathan Toews to the line-up Thursday night as they host the Edmonton Oilers.
In addition to Toews, Chicago will also have forward Tyler Johnson along with defensemen Calvin de Haan and Riley Stillman returning to action.
Toews, 33, last played on Jan. 26 before missing over a month due to a concussion. Now, the three-time Stanley Cup champion will attempt to remain healthy through the final two months of the regular season.
Unlike previous campaigns, the 6’2” forward has struggled to produce much offensively in 2021-22, as he’s posted just four goals and 19 points through 43 games. Barring a late scoring surge, the former first-round selection will finish with career lows across the board.
With the Mar. 21 trade deadline fast approaching, the Blackhawks are expected to be major sellers this season, meaning the current rebuild is far from over. After officially naming Kyle Davidson as the franchise’s new GM on Monday, there’s plenty of work ahead for this newly-formed front office.
For now, with a $10.5 million cap hit through 2022-23, it doesn’t appear Toews will need to worry about his immediate future in Chicago. As for his long-time teammate Patrick Kane, well, he could potentially be dealt if the right deal presents itself.
In the meantime, Toews will look to finish the season strong as he makes his highly-anticipated return to the line-up, which will see him paired next to Alex DeBrincat and Johnson on the club’s second line.
Chicago will host Edmonton at the United Center on Thursday, beginning at 8:30 pm ET.
-Thomas Hall
Twitter: @ThomasHall85