During 26 seasons in the National Hockey League with the Montreal Canadiens, Chicago Blackhawks, and Detroit Red Wings, tough guy Chris Chelios exhibited a “do whatever it takes” mentality that made him popular with some fans, despised by others. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2013 and now serves as the executive adviser to the general manager of the Red Wings.
“I had famously said once in a television interview that I would ‘never’ play for the Detroit Red Wings.
“I meant it when I said it. That’s how deep the rivalry was between the Blackhawks and the Red Wings.
“When I settled into my hotel room after being traded to Detroit, that interview was being played on the local news. I’m sure it was played over and over in Chicago. Blackhawks fans remember that interview and never forgave me for agreeing to play for the Red Wings.
“I’m not sure I can really blame them.”