After suffering from long-COVID and chronic health issues, former Chicago Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews hasn't played since April of last year.
Missing the entire 2020-21 season due to health issues, Toews has been trying to manage his symptoms and try to get himself eventually back in shape for a potential return.
News broke that Toews had traveled to India in order to participate in an Ayurvedic medical practice called Panchakarma as a solution to his health concerns.
Toews provided everyone with an update via his personal Instagram about his health journey:
Toews then went on to explain he went through a transformation that gave him a wider perspective on things:
A Panchakarma is a traditional healing method that uses alternative treatments in order to promote immunity but has no scientific proof as a tried-and-true method of healing, however, it is known to help with habitual changes.
It seems like Toews was able to find some peace within himself and his healing process, and gushed about the Indian style of medicine.
With this in mind, is Toews preparing for a comeback? Potentially.
It all depends on if Toews has come to peace with his career and if he wants to continue.
He would have no shortage of suitors and he could help any team once back in a rhythm.
Brad Treliving should gauge his interest, as he would no doubt bring a winning acumen, scoring ability and a true leadership presence to the locker room. The 36-year-old wouldn't command the most expensive deal, and if he can perform he might translate that into an extension.
With 883 points in 1,067 NHL games, Toews was part of a Chicago Blackhawks dynasty that won three Stanley Cups in 2010, 2013, and 2015. He is a four-time All-Star and won the Conn Smythe as Playoff MVP in 2010.
He would be a massive boost to Toronto's depth down the middle and adding Fraser Minten and Nikita Grebenkin on his wings could end up creating some incredible magic and they would learn priceless knowledge from Toews.
If Toews wants a great way to acclimate back into the NHL, there's no better team than Toronto.
They have the pieces Toews can work with, and he doesn't need to lead an offense like he used to.
Jonathan Toews: Toronto Maple Leaf? Why the heck not?
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