The 48-year-old defenseman, a three-time Norris Trophy winner, has been called up by the Atlanta Thrashers, general manager Don Waddell told ESPN.com on Wednesday.
"Can't wait. Got to make the most out of this chance," Chelios said in a text message to ESPN.com.
Chelios had 22 points (5 goals, 17 assists) in 46 games with the AHL's Chicago Wolves this season. He signed an NHL deal with the Thrashers on March 2. The Wolves are Atlanta's primary AHL affiliate.
"Chris has been an outstanding leader and mentor for our young players in Chicago and his level of play has made him deserving of this opportunity," Waddell said, according to STATS LLC. "He's a tremendous competitor who strengthens our group of defensemen and instantly adds a veteran presence to our locker room."
The Chicago native last played in the NHL last May 27 with the Detroit Red Wings against the Chicago Blackhawks in the Western Conference finals.
At 48, Chelios is still three years younger than the oldest man to ever play in an NHL game. Gordie Howe was 51 when he scored 15 goals for the Hartford Whalers in 1979-80.
Pierre LeBrun covers the NHL for ESPN.com. Information from STATS LLC was used in this report.
Edit: If you bought this guy's jersey back in '84 when he was with the Canadiens congrats..... long term investment I guess.
[Dooger] 11:53 pm: Thank God you're here! Some Wings fans were in here trying to have sex with me.
glen a richter wrote:In '84 I was 3 years old and I didn't care about Chelios.
I still don't care about Chelios.
I was one.
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Why were the Thrashers reminiscing about Chris Chelios? Is there anything that great about the guy to recall?
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glen a richter wrote:In '84 I was 3 years old and I didn't care about Chelios.
I still don't care about Chelios.
I was one.
I was -2.
Damn kids
My parents were doing it when he was first on the Habs.
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