The Chicago Blackhawks have announced that former blue liner Chris Chelios will have his jersey retired by the club in a pregame ceremony this coming February.
Chelios was inducted into the hockey hall of fame in 2013 following a 25 NHL season career spanning from 1984-2010. A three time Norris trophy winner, the 61 year old’s number 7 jersey will become the 9th number retired by the Blackhawks in franchise history.
In addition to Chelios, Glenn Hall, Pierre Pilote, Keith Magnusson, Bobby Hull, Denis Savard, Stan Mikita, Tony Esposito, and Marian Hossa have all seen their jerseys head to the rafters. A Chicago native himself, Chelios’ jersey retirement was announced by Pearl Jam singer Eddie Vedder at a concert at the United Center on Thursday evening.
“We are entering a new era of Blackhawks hockey on the ice, but the importance of honoring past members of this organization is, and always will be, a priority,” Blackhawks CEO Danny Wirtz said. “Chris Chelios represents not only the Blackhawks, but, given his roots here, the city of Chicago.”
A three time Stanley Cup winner, Chelios registered 948 points (185G, 763A) throughout his career, while accumulating 2,891 penalty minutes along the way. Chelios was originally selected in the 2nd round (40th overall) by the Montreal Canadiens in the 1981 NHL Entry Draft.
The club will honour the former defenseman on February 25th, 2024 when Chicago plays host to the Detroit Red Wings. A fitting date given the 18 years that Chelios spent between the two franchises.
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