India, June 20 -- Jonathan Toews announced his retirement from the NHL on Friday, bringing the curtain down on a 16-season career. The three-time Stanley Cup champion made the announcement in his hometown of Winnipeg, where he also played his final NHL season with the Jets after returning from a two-year absence caused by illness. Thanking the organization, Toews said, "Thank you for giving me the opportunity to live out my dream of pulling on that Jets sweater and playing in front of my hometown community, my family, my friends."

The former Chicago Blackhawks captain also shared a message for the fans who supported him throughout his championship-winning years. Reflecting on his return to Chicago this season, Toews called the reception ...