The Chicago Blackhawks announced late on Thursday night that Chris Chelios’ No. 7 jersey would be retired. During the Pearl Jam concert at the United Center, the Hockey Hall of Famer’s close friend Eddie Vedder gave him the unexpected news on stage.
On Sunday, February 25, 2024, against the Detroit Red Wings, with whom he won two of his three Stanley Cups, Chelios will have his number retired.
“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,” said Blackhawks chairman and CEO Danny Wirtz in a statement. “Chris Chelios represents not only the Blackhawks but also the city of Chicago given his local origins. Rocky would have liked to witness this occasion and wanted Chris to be the next Blackhawk to have his jersey retired. We are excited to honor Chris’ career in February with his family, friends, and Blackhawks supporters.
Blackhawks president of business operations Jaime Faulkner stated in a statement: “We are happy to have Chris Chelios’ number hang forever in the United Center rafters. “As we celebrate the accomplishments of the many outstanding players who have sported the Blackhawks sweater, there is a lot in store for the club. Plans to honor our alumni and further jersey retirements will continue to develop as we look forward to sharing that with our supporters during our forthcoming Centennial celebration during the 2025–26 season.
Chelios will join Glenn Hall (No. 1), Keith Magnuson (No. 3), Pierre Pilote (No. 3), Bobby Hull (No. 9), Denis Savard (No. 18), Stan Mikita (No. 21), Tony Esposito (No. 35), and Marian Hossa (No. 81) as the ninth player in franchise history to have his number retired.
In his native Chicago, where he spent nine of his 26 NHL seasons, Chelios had 487 points (92 goals, 395 assists) over 664 regular-season games and an additional 48 points (12 goals, 36 assists) during 65 postseason games. Fourth among defensemen in team history in scoring with 487 points.
Chelios won two Norris Trophies as the league’s best defenseman while playing for the Blackhawks. He also participated in five NHL All-Star Games and received votes for the Hart Trophy twice, the league MVP award. From 1995 to 1999, he also served as the team’s captain.