Fansided

Best hockey player from each state

By Dave Stevenson

Jan 26, 2014; New York City, NY, USA; NHL former player Jeremy Roenick skates with youngsters on a miniature rink before the Stadium Series hockey game between the New Jersey Devils and the New York Rangers at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 26, 2014; New York City, NY, USA; NHL former player Jeremy Roenick skates with youngsters on a miniature rink before the Stadium Series hockey game between the New Jersey Devils and the New York Rangers at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn/NHLI via Getty Images
Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn/NHLI via Getty Images /

Illinois – Chris Chelios

The state of Illinois might not seem like a significant state for producing hockey players, but 59 NHLers have come from there. Without a doubt, the most famous is Chicago Blackhawks legend Chris Chelios. During his 26 years in the NHL, he cemented his legacy as America’s greatest defenseman.

Chelios got his start with the Montreal Canadiens. Due to a variety of reasons, a trade to the Blackhawks saw him return to his home state. In 664 games with Chicago, Chelios had 92 goals and 487 points. He won two of his three Norris Trophies while with the Blackhawks, serving as their captain from 1995 to 1999.

At the age of 37, Chelios had no intention to retire, so he signed with the Detroit Red Wings. He wound up playing 10 seasons with them, amassing 158 points in 578 games. Chelios won three Stanley Cups during his career, including one with the Canadiens and two with the Red Wings. He also represented the United States internationally on a regular basis, leading them in the 1998, 2002, and 2006 Olympics. Chelios also tried to play at the age of 48 with the Atlanta Thrashers, but only played in seven games.

Everyone talks about how Jaromir Jagr is still great at his age, which is true. However, Jagr is no Chelios. Dominate until you’re 46 years old and then we can talk.

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