The Chicago Blackhawks have announced that they will retire former captain Chris Chelios’ No. 7 in the upcoming season. The surprise announcement was made by Pearl Jam frontman Eddie Vedder during a concert at the United Center. Chelios’ jersey retirement ceremony is scheduled for February 25th when the Blackhawks host the Detroit Red Wings. This honor makes Chelios the ninth player in franchise history to have his number retired.
The decision to retire Chelios’ jersey has been in the works for years within the organization. It was also a wish of the late Rocky Wirtz, former owner of the Blackhawks. Chelios, like Marian Hossa, was beloved by Wirtz both as a person and as a player. Chelios’ return to the organization as an ambassador in recent years was a clear sign of his significance to the team. Fans have long wondered if Chelios would ever have his number retired, and now their wishes have been granted.
With the Blackhawks’ centennial approaching in 2025-26, it is expected that more jerseys will be retired and hung in the United Center rafters. In the past, the team has been selective about retiring jerseys, with many deserving players still waiting for their turn. However, the recent decision to retire Hossa’s No. 81 has opened the door for other players who may have been considered “borderline” cases. This includes players like Brent Seabrook, Patrick Sharp, and Niklas Hjalmarsson, who were all part of the Blackhawks’ three-time championship teams.
The Blackhawks have outlined specific guidelines for jersey retirements. These guidelines include being retired for at least three years, playing a minimum of eight years and 500 games (400 for goaltenders) with the team, being enshrined in the Hockey Hall of Fame or playing 1,000 games (700 for goaltenders) with the Blackhawks, playing more games with the Blackhawks than any other team during their NHL career, and having a significant impact on the game of hockey. Additional consideration is given for members of Stanley Cup-winning teams and for a player’s off-ice character and contributions to the organization.
Chris Chelios had an illustrious career in the NHL, winning three Stanley Cup titles and being inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2013. During his time with the Blackhawks, Chelios recorded 395 assists and 487 points, ranking him fourth all-time among defensemen in franchise history. He also had successful stints with the Montreal Canadiens and Detroit Red Wings, solidifying his status as one of the greatest defensemen of his era.
As the Blackhawks continue to honor their history and celebrate their centennial, fans can expect more jersey retirements in the years to come. The team is taking a fan-friendly approach, recognizing players who may have been overlooked in the past. With Chelios’ No. 7 joining the other retired jerseys in the rafters, the Blackhawks are paying tribute to one of their all-time greats and setting the stage for future celebrations of their rich history.
In conclusion, the Chicago Blackhawks have announced that they will retire Chris Chelios’ No. 7 in the upcoming season. This decision comes after years of discussion within the organization and is a tribute to Chelios’ significant contributions to the team. With more jersey retirements expected in the future, the Blackhawks are honoring their history and celebrating their centennial in a fan-friendly way. Chelios’ jersey retirement ceremony will be a special moment for both him and Blackhawks fans as they recognize his impact on the game of hockey.