Blackhawks are set to retire the same number twice

However, this is precisely what's happening with the Chicago Blackhawks, as they plan to retire the numbers of both Chris Chelios and former defenseman Brett Seabrook, who both wore the same number.

Despite the unprecedented nature of this decision, both players undeniably deserve to see their numbers hanging in the rafters, considering their outstanding contributions to the team during their respective eras.

Chelios was a formidable defenseman during his tenure with the Blackhawks, consistently posing a threat on the ice and making life exceedingly difficult for opponents.

His career spanned from 1983 to 2010, during which he played for four different organizations. Chelios spent nine seasons with the Blackhawks and garnered immense love and respect from both the organization and the fan base. Over his career, he played an impressive 1651 games, scored 185 goals, recorded 763 assists, and amassed a total of 948 points. His career plus-minus rating was an astonishing +351.

Brent Seabrook, at 38 years old, dedicated his entire career to the Blackhawks. He was selected in the first round, 14th overall, in the 2003 draft and played an integral role in the team's success, contributing to three Stanley Cup victories in 10 years as a fantastic defenseman.

Throughout his career, Seabrook played 1114 games, netted 103 goals, provided 361 assists, and accumulated 464 points, with a plus-minus rating of +111.

I hope that when the Blackhawks decide to retire their numbers, they do so on separate days to properly honor each player's unique and outstanding contributions to the team.