Top candidate emerges as new Blackhawks captain after Toews' departure

After the departure of Jonathan Toews, the Chicago Blackhawks are left without a captain. However, one player on the roster has already volunteered for the job: defenseman Seth Jones is hoping to take over the role.

“I’ve always wanted to be a captain,” Jones told NHL.com on Tuesday. “I’ve learned from some great leaders – Shea Weber, Nick Foligno, Jonathan Toews – I mean, I played with some of the greatest captains that we’ve seen. It would be pretty special.”

Jones is entering his third year with the Blackhawks after he was traded from the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2021. He is signed at a cap hit of $9.5 million through the 2029-30 season.

The Hawks are entering a new phase, not only without Toews or star player Patrick Kane, but also thanks to the selection of prized prospect Connor Bedard, who is expected to play with the team this year.

“I understand where the organization is at,” Jones explained. “I’m focused on going and just playing my game and leading whether I have a C, an A or nothing on my jersey. I don’t think that should change.

“‘Tazer’ always used to say that in the room the past couple of years: ‘Everyone has a voice in here, everyone is allowed to speak up and say what they want. It shouldn’t be just four or five guys who are able to talk.’ If you’re an 18-year-old, you should be able to speak your mind. So, I really took that to heart.”

Late last season, it was announced that Toews would not return to the Blackhawks and would take the upcoming season off, away from the NHL. He was captain of the franchise since 2008, a run that included three Stanley Cup titles.

Recommended articles:

• Inappropriate and despicable advice given to Connor Bedard!
• Andrew Ladd makes a major announcement about his future.
• Joel Quenneville spotted at NHL GM and Coaches meeting.
• Latest update on Joel Quenneville's return to the NHL
• Chris Chelios earns major honor