Jonathan Toews Update: Surprising Turn of Events at Jets Practice

Jonathan Toews' official return to NHL play may be delayed, but the day had another surprise up its sleeve.

When the Winnipeg Jets announced their Opening Day roster, Toews and captain Adam Lowry were included as injured, non-roster players. The decision had Toews, who hadn't played since the 2022-23 season, beginning the year in the press box.

Just hours later, however, Toews was seen practicing in a normal jersey, and most notably, practicing on the second line of the team.

The veteran former Blackhawks captain and three-time Stanley Cup champion signed with his hometown Jets on July 1 after retiring to address a health matter.

The return was billed as a feel-good comeback and a significant addition for a Winnipeg team still seeking good center depth behind Mark Scheifele.

Toews was also active in his final season of play in the NHL, posting 31 points in 53 games and averaging 17:43 minutes in ice time.

Head coach Scott Arniel had also used his condition before to describe him as "day-to-day" after he tweaked something minor on October 2, so this morning's effort in practice may be indicating more than the usual.

And while Lowry, who had offseason hip surgery, also picked up the injured, non-roster designation, the 32-year-old center is still a valuable bottom-six player in Winnipeg following the season where he scored 34 points in 73 games and assisted in contributing four goals in 13 playoff games.

The Jets host the Dallas Stars Thursday night in their 2025-26 home opener. Whether Toews and Lowry will be available is still unclear, but spotting Toews in a standard jersey gliding on the ice indicates that his much-delayed comeback may arrive sooner than anticipated.