Blackhawks Blank Jets 2-0 in Toews’ Return

In Jonathan Toews’ highly-anticipated return to the United Center, the Chicago Blackhawks blanked the Winnipeg Jets 2-0.

Monday’s game carried more weight than your traditional regular season game in the middle of January. For the first time since his final game as a Chicago Blackhawk back in 2023, longtime captain Jonathan Toews returned to the United Center with the Winnipeg Jets.

The first period was fast, as both teams traded chances. However, there was an unease within the arena as everyone awaited that first TV timeout. As soon as it came, the lights dimmed, and the real show began.

A video, a lot of love, and a standing ovation for over three minutes graced the moment. Toews was, is, and will forever be a Chicago legend.

Once the night’s marquee moment came and went, the teams settled in. Although it was a scoreless first period, both teams tested the opposing goaltenders at a fair clip.

Story continues below.

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In the second period, shots were a bit harder to come by. The physical edge picked up as both teams traded punches. There were chances, but still it was 0-0 over halfway through the period.

Finally, the scoreless streak broke. On a flip pass out of the zone by Ryan Donato, Jason Dickinson settled the puck on his stick. After a quick stick-handling move, Dickinson ripped a shot to the top corner of the net, giving Chicago a 1-0 lead.

With roughly two minutes remaining, the Jets pulled goaltender Connor Hellebuyck for the extra attacker. Almost immediately, Alex Vlasic pushed the puck forward to Ilya Mikheyev. The veteran found Connor Bedard, who finished off the game with an empty net goal, his 20th of the season. The Jets couldn’t capitalize, Spencer Knight finished off his third shutout of the season, and the Blackhawks won 2-0 in Toews’ return. Back-to-back losses were wiped away by a big win at home.

Luce Thoughts

Sitting in the crowd on Monday night, I cannot begin to express how incredible the moment for Jonathan Toews was. Frankly, it is completely deserved. Although the Jets were blanked in an INCREDIBLE effort from Spencer Knight, it was a storybook kind of night.

Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams and Chicago Cubs outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong were both in attendance for this one, ensuring the star power was high in Chicago. Kris Versteeg and Andrew Shaw were present as well, showcasing just what Jonathan Toews meant to so many.

This game was more important than many realize. A young Blackhawks team battled and shut down a very good Winnipeg team despite some struggles in the standings. Getting a big win before a bit of a gauntlet this weekend with Carolina, Tampa Bay, and Florida on the docket was important.

What’s On Tap Next?

The Blackhawks have a few days off before venturing to North Carolina to take on the Carolina Hurricanes. Puck drop is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. CT on Thursday night. The game will only be broadcasted on Hulu/ESPN+ on Thursday.