Blackhawks retiring Hossa's number next season

The Chicago Blackhawks will retire Marian Hossa's No. 81 next season, the team announced Thursday.

He'll be the eighth player in Blackhawks history to receive the honor, joining Glenn Hall, Pierre Pilote, Keith Magnuson, Bobby Hull, Denis Savard, Stan Mikita, and Tony Esposito.

Hossa signed a one-day contract earlier Thursday to retire as a Blackhawk.

Marian Hossa's first ballot Hall of Fame legacy is worth more than one night of recognition. It's a legacy worthy of eternity. pic.twitter.com/JCnQh5SRxW

- Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) April 8, 2022

Hossa played eight seasons in Chicago before a skin condition cut his career short. He sat out the 2017-18 season, and the Blackhawks traded his contract to the Arizona Coyotes.

The Slovak was a key piece of Chicago's dynasty in the early 2010s, winning three Stanley Cups and collecting 415 points in 534 regular-season games.

Hossa also suited up for the Ottawa Senators, Atlanta Thrashers, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Detroit Red Wings in his 19-year career. He eclipsed 500 goals and 1,000 points and was a first-ballot Hall of Famer in 2020.

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