ESPN Hockey Analyst Chris Chelios Fired, Why is He Not Returning to ESPN?
by Ushapriyanga | Updated Jun 07, 2023
Who is Chris Chelios?
Did you know that Christos Kostas Chelios, better known as Chris Chelios, is an American ice hockey legend? Born on January 25, 1962, Chelios made a name for himself as a highly-skilled defenseman in the National Hockey League (NHL). His remarkable career spanned several teams, including the Montreal Canadiens, Chicago Blackhawks, Detroit Red Wings, and the Atlanta Thrashers.
Chelios's hockey journey is filled with impressive achievements. He proudly boasts three Stanley Cup championships, one with the Canadiens and two with the Red Wings. In fact, he holds the record for the most career playoff games played, with a staggering 266 appearances. That's an incredible feat!
But Chelios didn't stop there. He also holds the record for the most games played by a defenseman in the NHL, with an impressive 1,651 games under his belt. He's a true hockey warrior who competed at the highest level for a remarkable 26 seasons, tying the legendary Gordie Howe.
Not only was Chelios a force to be reckoned with on the ice, but he was also a resilient player. He appeared in the playoffs an incredible 24 times, only missing out once during the 1997-98 season. And while he may hold the record for the most postseason losses in North American professional sports, with 117, he only experienced defeat once in a Game 7 throughout his career.
Chelios's impact goes beyond his individual accomplishments. In 2017, he was rightfully recognized as one of the "100 Greatest NHL Players" in history, cementing his legacy among the all-time greats of the game. His contributions to the sport were officially honored when he was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame on November 8, 2013.
Beyond the ice, Chelios proudly embraces his Greek heritage. His cousin, Nikos Tselios, also had a professional hockey career and was even a first-round draft pick of the Carolina Hurricanes.
Chris Chelios's journey in hockey is one filled with resilience, longevity, and a deep love for the game. His name will forever be etched in the annals of NHL history, and his impact on the sport will continue to inspire future generations of players.
ESPN Hockey Analyst Chris Chelios Fired
Former NHL All-Star defenseman Chris Chelios will not have his contract renewed by ESPN, as reported by Front Office Sports. The decision to part ways with Chelios was not based on his performance but was a result of parent company Disney's efforts to cut costs and eliminate 7,000 jobs, amounting to $5.5 billion in savings.
Chris Chelios retired from professional hockey after an impressive 26-season career in the NHL, which concluded in the 2009-2010 season. Throughout his career, Chelios achieved remarkable success, winning the Norris Trophy as the league's top defenseman three times and capturing the Stanley Cup three times as well.
Chelios initially joined ESPN as a studio analyst in 2016 when the network broadcasted the World Cup of Hockey. Prior to his time at ESPN, he served as an analyst for Fox Sports 1 and worked in the front office of the Detroit Red Wings. Chelios returned to ESPN in 2021 when the network regained the NHL broadcast rights.
At ESPN, Chelios formed part of the network's studio team, alongside other former NHL players such as Mark Messier, P.K. Subban, Ray Ferraro, Kevin Weekes, and Ryan Callahan. However,
Chelios is now among the personnel affected by the company's initial cuts, which also include long-time ESPN vice president of communications Mike Soltys and executive vice president and general manager of ESPN+ Russell Wolff. Additional cuts are anticipated later this month, according to sports journalist Andrew Marchand of The New York Post.
While ESPN is implementing cost-saving measures, it recently made a significant investment in securing the services of Pat McAfee and his show. The reported five-year, $85 million deal has led to some questioning the optics of such a move in light of the impending payroll reductions.
Chris Chelios ESPN
Having had an illustrious playing career spanning 26 years, Chelios played an impressive 1,651 games, which is the second-most by an NHL defenseman. He achieved great success during his career, securing three Stanley Cups— one with the Montreal Canadiens and two with the Detroit Red Wings. Chelios also earned the prestigious Norris Trophy three times, recognized as the league's top defenseman, in the years 1989, 1993, and 1996.
While ESPN has chosen not to comment on the specific reasons for Chelios' departure, sources indicate that his contract was not renewed as part of the overall staff reduction efforts at Disney. It is expected that there will be additional notable departures from the network in the near future.
During his time at ESPN, Chelios had the opportunity to work alongside esteemed former NHL players such as Mark Messier, P.K. Subban, Ray Ferraro, Kevin Weekes, and Ryan Callahan, adding valuable insights and analysis to the network's NHL broadcasts.
As fans say goodbye to Chris Chelios' contributions and expertise on ESPN, his departure serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by sports media networks. These networks must make difficult decisions to adapt and streamline their operations in response to the ever-changing landscape of the industry.
Chris Chelios Net Worth
Chris Chelios, the esteemed former NHL player, has amassed an impressive net worth of $80 million. Chelios enjoyed a remarkable and lengthy tenure in professional hockey, spanning an impressive 26 seasons in the NHL. Renowned for his exceptional defensive skills and exemplary leadership qualities, he achieved remarkable success on the ice.
During his career, Chelios played for multiple teams, leaving an indelible mark on each. He notably competed for the Montreal Canadiens, Chicago Blackhawks, and Detroit Red Wings. With the Canadiens, he secured a Stanley Cup victory in 1986, while his time with the Red Wings saw him hoist the prestigious trophy twice, in 2002 and 2008. Furthermore, Chelios earned the esteemed Norris Trophy three times, being recognized as the league's premier defenseman in the years 1989, 1993, and 1996.
In addition to his on-ice achievements, Chris Chelios's substantial net worth can also be attributed to various endorsement deals, smart investments, and successful business ventures. Leveraging his charismatic personality and marketability, he capitalized on his fame and reputation to build a thriving financial portfolio.
With an exceptional playing career, lucrative salary earnings, and astute financial decisions, Chris Chelios has cemented himself as one of the NHL's most financially successful figures. His net worth stands as a testament to his remarkable accomplishments both on and off the ice.
ESPN Hockey Analyst Chris Chelios Fired-FAQs
Chris Chelios has an estimated net worth of $80 million.
Chris Chelios had a remarkable 26-season career in the NHL.
Chris Chelios played for several teams throughout his career, including the Montreal Canadiens, Chicago Blackhawks, and Detroit Red Wings, among others.
Chris Chelios won three Stanley Cups. He won one with the Montreal Canadiens in 1986 and two with the Detroit Red Wings in 2002 and 2008.
Chris Chelios won the Norris Trophy three times. He was recognized as the league's best defenseman in 1989, 1993, and 1996.