The Vancouver Canucks have a lot of work to do during the 2025 off-season. After missing the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs, GM Patrik Allvin and his team need to strengthen the lineup, which includes adding a middle-six center. Whether this is through trade or free agency, the Canucks are projected to be very active over the next month and a half, as they fill out their roster for the 2025-26 season.
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One name that has recently emerged with experience as a top-line center is Jonathan Towes. After taking the last two years' seasons off, Toews is ready to resume his NHL career and will be looking for a contract on July 1. While Toews has had a long and successful career, he is not a player Vancouver should be focusing on heading into free agency.
The biggest concern when it comes to Toews is his health. The 37-year-old has been dealing with complications related to COVID-19 and has only played 124 games over the past four years. While Toews has spent the last few years getting healthy, there is always a risk, especially when it comes to strenuous physical activity.
Former Blackhawks Captain Jonathan Toews Looking For Contract in Free Agency
Reports appear to be correct in that the former captain of the <a href="https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/chicago-blackhawks">Chicago Blackhawks</a>, Jonathan Toews, is looking to return to the NHL. He told his agent that he's "100% committed to coming back to the NHL next season," reported Pierre LeBrun.
With Toews, there are also questions about his on-ice play, which has slipped over time. When he did come back for the 2021-22 season, the Chicago Blackhawks captain did not look like the same player both offensively and in the defensive zone. While Toews has been a Selke-calibre player throughout his career, one would imagine that it will be difficult for him to have a similar impact after missing the last two seasons.
Another issue is speed, which should be a priority for the Canucks this off-season. According to NHL EDGE, Toews had just 23 speed bursts over 20 mph in 2022-23, while his 165 18-20 mph bursts were 140 short of the league average. While having speedy wingers could mitigate some of Toews' skating issues, his lack of foot speed could cause some issues, especially when trying to defend the rush.
At the end of the day, signing Toews would be a risk that Vancouver can't afford to take. Yes, he has a long track record of success, but he doesn't fit the mould of player the Canucks should be targeting this off-season. Ultimately, Vancouver should avoid getting into the Toews sweepstakes in free agency and focus their energy on players who can help the roster, not just in 2025-26, but in the future.
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