Chris Chelios Advisor to Hockey Operations

Chelios enters his third season as advisor to hockey operations for the Red Wings. In his position, Chelios works closely with Detroit’s front office, as well as the Red Wings’ coaching staff, providing insight on a wide range of on-ice issues and helping to develop and mentor young players in the organization. He also assists the team’s business operations, appearing at games and other functions to interact with fans and potential business partners.

Chelios retired as a player from the NHL on August, 31, 2010, after 26 seasons with the Montreal Canadiens, Chicago Blackhawks, Red Wings and Atlanta Thrashers. He played the most games by a defenseman in NHL history (1,651) and was the only player in league history to play in over 400 games for three different teams – Chicago (664), Detroit (578) and Montreal (402). He made his NHL debut on March 8, 1984, when the Canadiens hosted the Hartford Whalers and skated in his final game on April 6, 2010, when the Thrashers battled the New Jersey Devils. For 26 years, Chelios accomplished a litany of feats that place him among the game’s all-time greats. He played the fourth-most regular season games in NHL history (1,651) and the most postseason games in league history (266), won three Stanley Cups (Montreal-1986 and Detroit 2002, 2008), three Norris Trophies as the NHL’s best defenseman (1989, 1993, 1996), finished second in Norris Trophy voting twice (1995, 2002), made 11 NHL All-Star Game appearances (1985, 1990-94, 1996-98, 2002, 2008), finished as a first team NHL All-Star five times (1989, 1993, 1995, 1996, 2002) and a second team All-Star twice (1991, 1997), ranks 10th all-time among defensemen with 948 points (185-763-948) and at the age of 48, Chelios retired as the second-oldest player in NHL history behind the legendary Mr. Hockey, Gordie Howe (52).

Chelios also played an integral role in the development of USA Hockey during his illustrious playing career. He represented the United States at four Olympic Winter Games (1984, 1988, 2002, 2006), three Canada Cups (1984, 1987, 1991), two World Cup of Hockey events (1996, 2004) and once at the World Junior Championship (1982). Chelios led the U.S. to a championship at the 1996 World Cup of Hockey and a silver medal at the 2002 Olympic Winter Games in Salt Lake City.

Chelios lives in the Detroit area with his wife, Tracee, and their two daughters, Caley and Tara. His two sons, Dean and Jake, are currently enrolled at Michigan State University and play hockey for the Spartans.