Chicago Blackhawks: Whose Number Should Be Retired Next?
By Tim Healey
Dominik Hasek
As much as Hawks fans like to remind folks he got his start in Chicago, he wasn't here long enough to get a jersey retirement. He made his bones in Buffalo and Detroit. Despite his amazing career numbers, he's the first obvious no on this list.
Brent Seabrook
The other heroic Hawks defenseman to wear number 7, he, like Chelios, will see his jersey retired. Along with Kane, Toews, Duncan Keith, Patrick Sharp, and Corey Crawford, he was part of the central core of the Cup dynasty. His number 7 will sit aside Chelios' number 7, and probably soon.
Duncan Keith
Arguably the best defense of his era and definitely the defensive hero for the Hawks during the 2010s. Also drove the offense with his play. Two Norris trophies, three All-Star nods, and one Conn Smythe. Yeah, number 2 will be in the rafters sooner rather than later.
Patrick Sharp
Sharpie is a tougher case. He was a huge part of the Hawks' core, but his case isn't as clear-cut as that of his teammates. Still, he put up some strong numbers early in the Cup run and has been a popular ambassador for the team, including some occasional TV work. That fan engagement may be enough.
Steve Larmer
He is just below the level of stardom that gains instant name recognition, but his offensive numbers with the Hawks are solid and there's a grassroots push for him to have the honor of sweater retirement. He was with Chicago for a long time, too.
Jeremy Roenick
Could JR's #27 hang in the rafters at the United Center someday? Perhaps. He had strong numbers with Chicago and along with Chelios was the face of the team at the start of the '90s. Working against him is the fact he was traded after 8 seasons. On yet the other hand, JR is still a presence on Hawks fans' TVs as a product pitchman -- despite playing for several other teams, he keeps roots here. That could help.
Connor Bedard
We shall see...