The Chicago Blackhawks have a storied history regarding jersey numbers, with nine iconic jerseys officially retired by 2024. These numbers pay tribute to the legendary Blackhawks greats, whose jerseys you won’t see on the ice again—except perhaps in a throwback game. Yet, before retirement, many of these numbers were worn by other notable franchise stars. In addition, what about the traded players, leaving their jerseys behind for current roster players? How do these players compare, and how does their new number bring them luck on the ice?
A new player taking on a former player’s number often signifies a blend of inspiration and tribute. However, in the fast-paced world of hockey, Chicago Blackhawks jersey numbers can change rapidly, especially during trades, marking a transition period. Yet, one constant remains: Patrick Kane proudly carries his No. 88 jersey on any team he is on.
So, which players have shared a Chicago Blackhawks jersey number with a former legend? Do they honour the legacy of the number, or do their unique skills create a new narrative about Chicago Blackhawks jersey numbers?
Shared Chicago Blackhawks Jersey Numbers
Bobby Orr and Seth Jones – #4
Why No. 4
Scouted at just 12 years old by the Boston Bruins, Orr originally wore No. 2 during junior hockey and 27 during pre-season. However, he chose No. 4 and stuck with it because it was vacant after veteran Albert Langlois left the Bruins.
Being the 24th Chicago player overall to wear the Chicago Blackhawks jersey number 4, Jones previously wore No. 3 while playing for the Columbus Blue Jackets and Nashville Predators. In a 20-question interview with CBS Sports Chicago, Jones said, “I’ve had 4 growing up a lot. I was 3 before I got here. I’ve always liked something about 3 or 4.”
On-Ice Achievements
Orr, formerly a forward, switched to defence at the suggestion of his coach. His list of on-ice achievements is long, but he remains the only defenceman to win the league scoring title, earning two Art Ross Trophies. Orr scored 100 points six times and holds the record for most points and assists by a defenceman. It was perhaps a ‘punishing’ era of hockey, as Orr endured multiple hits to his left knee, some seemingly intentional, which eventually led to surgeries. Despite injuries, Bobby Orr is among the best hockey players ever to grace the ice. While on the Bruins, Orr won the Stanley Cup twice, in 1970 and 1972.
During his time with the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2020, 1st Ohio Battery reported that Jones played more minutes in a single game than anyone else in NHL history. He spent 65 minutes on the ice against the Tampa Bay Lightning, setting the record for regular and postseason play. Beyond the NHL, Jones secured back-to-back gold medals at the 2011 and 2012 IIHF World U18 Championship. Throughout his three seasons with the Blackhawks, Jones has racked up at least 214 minutes on the power play and 137 minutes on the penalty kill.
Off-Ice Achievements
Jones, outside of the ice rink, is a valuable teammate. Chicago Hockey Now highlights his playing style has helped Alex Vlasic develop on the blue line. Head coach Luke Richardson has praised his calm demeanour and noted that he confidently leads by example. Additionally, the Chicago organization seems to have a lot of trust in Jones, as he is likely to remain with the team for the foreseeable future.
Orr, on the other hand, is not a media-focused individual. However, he is noted for doing a lot to support the hockey community and participates in charitable events.
Chris Chelios and Brent Seabrook – #7
Two players, both with incredible careers, share one Chicago Blackhawks jersey number—Chelios and Brent Seabrook both wore No. 7. Chelios, known for his unstoppable work ethic, holds the record for the most career penalty minutes for the Blackhawks, with 1,495 minutes in the box. Though he was a physical defenceman, Chelios knew when to leverage his skills for optimal puck movement and scoring.
Why No. 7
Before his retirement, Chelios shared the origin of his Chicago Blackhawks jersey number with CBS Chicago Sports. He had always worn No. 21 during youth hockey in honour of Stan Mikita. However, that number wasn’t available when he joined the NHL with the Montreal Canadiens. Once in Chicago, Chelios recalled, “It was given to me in Chicago. It was a good number.” He added, “Bobby Hull wore that number.” Chelios thought, “There’s got to be some magic in that one!”
Brent Seabrook, a defenceman and 14th overall pick in 2003, always wore the No. 7 Chicago Blackhawks jersey number simply because he liked it. In interviews, he said he was fortunate that the number was available when he joined the Blackhawks. During his 15 seasons with the team, injuries eventually led him to retire.
On-Ice Achievements
In addition to an NCAA Division I championship, Chelios won three Stanley Cups and a World Cup of Hockey title. He also earned an Olympic silver medal. Chelios is the all-time leader in games played by a defenceman, with 1,651 games over 26 seasons. Retiring at age 48 is unlikely for an NHL player, but never say never for the No. 7 Blackhawks jersey number. By the end of his career, he amassed 948 career points, including 185 goals and 763 assists.
Seabrook is a three-time Stanley Cup champion and an Olympic gold medalist, with numerous awards throughout his career. Known for offering advice to teammates, he was a natural leader and earned the ‘A’ on his jersey during the 2013-14 season. According to Bleacher Nation, no defenceman played more regular-season games while wearing the No. 7 Chicago Blackhawks jersey number than Seabrook (612) between 2008 and 2016. Only seven defensemen—Ryan Suter, Drew Doughty, Shea Weber, Duncan Keith, Jay Bouwmeester, Zdeno Chara, and Brian Campbell—logged more minutes than Seabrook, who totalled 14,178 minutes.
Off-Ice Achievements
A man of many talents, Chelios served in an executive role with the Detroit Red Wings, worked as an NHL analyst, and has written two books. His fantastic work ethic inspires Blackhawks players and highlights the determination of his former teammates, which contributed to both his success and that of the team. Before his trade, he stated, “I want to say in Chicago. I don’t know how I can put it simpler.” The Hockey Writers quoted his comments from Jan. 1999: “Things are going bad here, but I’m not the type of player who is going to quit or ask to be traded. My heart is in Chicago, and it’s always going to be in Chicago.”
After retiring in 2021, Seabrook contributed to hockey, helping Canada’s World Juniors team. Though he retired, his contract with Chicago remained until last season. Now, he could use his experience to help an NHL team as a coach. Seabrook remains a positive influence on the Blackhawks’ defencemen and cherishes the time spent with teammates he loves.
Artemi Panarin and Alex Vlasic – #72
Although he is no longer with the Blackhawks, he is known as ‘Breadman,’ a nickname he earned during his rookie year in Chicago. He initially wore. No. 72 before his trade to the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2017. Now, a new wave of talent proudly wears his former Chicago Blackhawks jersey number.
Why No. 72
There isn’t much to clarify about why Panarin chose No. 72 for his Blackhawks jersey. However, when he was traded, his best friend Sergei Bobrovsky wore No. 72. Panarin decided to wear No. 9, as it represented his original sweater number added together.
From the start, Alex Vlasic had worn No. 43 before changing to No. 72, allowing veteran Colin Blackwell to wear his old number. On Tap Sports Net mentioned, he wanted to allow a veteran to don the number instead.
On-Ice Achievements
Panarin has a reputation as a hockey player who stands out like no other. Despite his trade, he consistently communicates on the ice, elevating his gameplay with any team. During his rookie year, he tallied 77 points, including 30 goals and 47 assists. Last season with the New York Rangers, he reached his 100th point, joining the Magnificent Seven—a group of Rangers players who have achieved this milestone.
Vlasic, a young defenceman who previously played for Boston University, contrasts with Panarin, who plays as a forward. A hometown kid, Vlasic has stepped up as a solid defenceman for the Blackhawks. Last season, Vlasic led all Chicago skaters in 5-on-5 ice time and recorded the best goal differential on the team (-1).
Off-Ice Achievements
With the ‘A’ embroidered on his jersey, left-wing star Panarin strives for redemption. Although his influence isn’t limited to just on-ice performance, his upbeat personality has a significant impact on the Rangers’ success. Captain Jacob Trouba has praised Panarin as a visionary player who elevates his own game and those around him. Last season, Panarin’s contributions earned him the title of the Rangers’ Most Valuable Player.
Vlasic is often the face of the media for the Blackhawks, actively engaging with the Chicago community and giving back. Whether it’s through fun media videos or community events, he consistently makes an impact. Alongside his teammate Seth Jones, Vlasic represented Team USA at the 2024 IIHF World Championship. Beyond the NHL, he also won a bronze medal at the 2019 Under-18 Men’s World Championship.
While many iconic stars have shared former Chicago Blackhawks jersey numbers, new players will create their influence. Comparisons may arise, but each player brings unique qualities to make their number legendary. Moving forward, these numbers represent a rich history. For the Blackhawks, some of that former number magic may elevate these new players. This could lead to a season filled with opportunities, improving both the blue line and scoring chances. Who knows? Perhaps these new players wearing former numbers might one day see their jerseys retired.
Main Photo: Jamie Sabau-Imagn Images
