Chris Chelios officially retires from hockey, will join Detroit Red Wings front office

Former Detroit Red Wings defensman Chris Chelios waves after throwing out the first pitch prior to the Chicago Cubs-Detroit Tigers baseball game Thursday, June 25, 2009, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

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People who love making generic old jokes might be as sad as Stars fans will be watching Modano play as a Red Wing right now. While I must admit that I already thought this happened months ago, it appears that the 48-year-old Chris Chelios officially retired from hockey today according to ESPN’s EJ Hradek.

Chelios won’t waste time looking for a new job, though, as Hradek reports that he’ll stay close to the game anyway.

Chelios now will re-join the Wings organization in a yet to be determined management role. Another smart hire in Hockeytown!

The old jokes can be fun, but it’s a shame that playing beyond his prime might be the enduring legacy of his career. (I mean, he was drafted in 1981, before I was even a twinkle in my father’s eyes.) He took part in 26 seasons in the NHL, but hasn’t really make a big impact since the 2001-02 season, the last time he made an All Star team.

It’s a player’s right to hang up his skates whenever he wants, so congrats to Chelios on a great career.