Michael Jordan is expected to make a rare appearance at the United Center this weekend to honor his old friend and Chicago Blackhawks great Chris Chelios’ No. 7 jersey retirement.
Chelios told WSCR-AM 670 Wednesday morning that the Chicago Bulls legend is among the guests he expects to attend to raise his No. 7 jersey to the UC rafters in a ceremony that will take place on Sunday In the afternoon there will be a pre-game ceremony. The Eagles play the Detroit Red Wings.
“I would have them bring in as many people as possible who were influential to me, and obviously (Jordan) was a big part of me in the ’90s,” Chelios said on “The Mulley and Howe Show.” “They’re going to be here to support me. I’ve got a really good Rolodex over my career, so I’m loading it up. This is one last hurray and I’m going to make it better.”
Jordan and Chelios spent nearly a decade at the United Center, capturing the attention of fans. The Bulls drafted Jordan in 1984. Chelios was traded to the Blackhawks from the Montreal Canadiens in 1990 and played in Chicago until 1999, one year after Jordan retired from the Bulls for the second time. In 1992, both led their teams to the Finals.
The two met at a White Sox game after Chelios was traded and became friends in Chicago, even being greeted by the Eagles in Chelios’ first game after being traded back to Chicago in 1999. After being booed by fans, the pair also shared a glass of wine together.
Jordan did not attend the inaugural Bulls Ring of Honor ceremony in January, though Jordan cited scheduling issues and sent a video praising the team and expressing gratitude for the honor.
“I’m sorry I can’t be here tonight, but I don’t want that to stop you guys from having fun,” Jordan said. “I think we were very impressive and changed Chicago’s run to the championship. Every time you look up to the rafters, I hope you always remember where we were and where we are now. We always will be Championship. I will always be a part of the Chicago Bulls and I hope they continue to do well. “I hope to see other banners in the rafters and I hope this city will always be proud of the Chicago Bulls. “
Sunday’s game will be a big one for Hawks fans as franchise great Patrick Kane returns to Chicago for the first time since being traded to the New York Rangers last season. Former Blackhawks players Tony Amonte, Ed Belfort, Jeremy Roenicke and Dennis Savard will also attend Chelios’ retirement ceremony.
NBC Sports Chicago will broadcast Chelios’ ceremony Sunday starting at 3 p.m., followed by a special one-hour pregame show discussing Chelios and Kane.