The Blackhawks honored two of their most famous players on Sunday.
They retired former defenseman Chris Chelios' No. 7 jersey and welcomed with great fanfare the return to Chicago of forward Patrick Kane, now a member of the Red Wings.
Chelios made a grand entrance as he was driven to the ice center aboard a shiny Cadillac accompanied by his mother.
After his acceptance speech, a banner bearing his name was raised high above the United Center.
It was Chelios himself who introduced Kane to the audience before the game against the Wings. “At the end of his career, he will be considered the greatest American player in history. “He’s incredible,” he explained, rousing the enthusiasm of the audience, who gave him thunderous applause.
“It's funny to see you with the Red Wings jersey on your back, but don't worry, you'll get used to it and at the end of your career you'll be here in my place,” Chelios added, alluding to his own visit in Detroit after leaving Chicago. And there's no doubt that Kane's number 88 will also be retired when he hangs up his skates.
Chelios played 664 games in a Blackhawks jersey between 1990 and 1999. With this team he won the Norris Trophy twice (1993, 1996), after his first title in 1989 when he played for the Canadiens.
Kane spent 16 years with the Illinois club, amassing 1,225 points in 1,161 games.
It was his first time in Chicago since his departure in 2023. The public obviously still has him in their hearts.