Chris Chelios Net Worth

What is Chris Chelios' Net Worth?

Chris Chelios is a retired American professional hockey player with a net worth of $80 million. He had a prestigious career as a defenseman, playing an impressive 27 seasons in the NHL. Chelios was drafted 40th overall by the Montreal Canadiens in the 1981 NHL Draft. His journey included playing for the Montreal Canadiens, Chicago Blackhawks, Detroit Red Wings, and a brief stint with the Atlanta Thrashers before retiring.

Chelios boasts an illustrious career, having won three Stanley Cup Championships. He was selected for 11 NHL All-Star Games and made five NHL First All-Star teams. He also won three James Norris Memorial Trophies. In 2017, Chelios was recognized as one of the '100 Greatest NHL Players' in history.

Career Earnings

Over his NHL tenure, Chris Chelios earned an estimated $61,321,976 in salary. His peak earning season was 2002-2003, in which he made $5,500,000.

Early Life and College

Christos Kostas Chelios was born on January 25, 1962, in Chicago, Illinois. Raised in Evergreen Park, he found his passion for ice hockey early on. After attending Mount Carmel High School, he moved to San Diego, California, where he played for a local minor hockey team. Chelios later returned to the Midwest to enroll at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. From 1981 to 1983, he played college hockey for the Wisconsin Badgers.

Chelios quickly gained recognition for his skills and tough playing style. During the 1982-83 season, he was instrumental in the Badgers' NCAA Championship win, catching the eye of NHL scouts.

NHL Draft and Montreal Canadiens

Selected in the second round of the 1981 NHL Entry Draft, Chris Chelios made his NHL debut in the 1983-84 season with the Montreal Canadiens. He quickly became a key player on the defense. In his first full season, he helped the Canadiens win the 1986 Stanley Cup and was awarded the Norris Trophy as the league's top defenseman in 1989.

Chicago Blackhawks

Traded to the Chicago Blackhawks in 1990, Chris Chelios became a staple of the team's defense and a hometown hero. His performance earned him two more Norris Trophies, in 1993 and 1996. Known for his leadership and rugged playing style, Chelios quickly became a fan favorite.

(Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

Detroit Red Wings

In 1999, Chris Chelios was traded to the Detroit Red Wings. He continued to excel, contributing to the team's Stanley Cup victories in 2002 and 2008. His perseverance and work ethic allowed him to play into his 40s, making him one of the oldest players in NHL history.

Chelios retired in 2010 after a brief term with the Atlanta Thrashers, concluding a remarkable 27-season career. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2013.

International Play and Olympic Success

Chris Chelios represented the United States in four Winter Olympic Games: 1984, 1998, 2002, and 2006. His leadership was pivotal in Team USA's silver medal finish at the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City. Chelios' success on the international stage solidified his standing as one of the greatest American-born hockey players.

Personal Life

Chris Chelios married his wife, Tracee, in 1987, and the couple has four children together. He has been an enthusiastic supporter at Michigan State University hockey games, cheering for his sons Jake and Dean.

$75 Million Malibu Mansion

In 2003, Chris and Tracee purchased a four-bedroom home in Malibu overlooking Paradise Cove Beach for $6 million. As members of the Malibu Mob, they enjoyed a high-profile social circle. In April 2023, they listed the home for sale at $75 million. By February 2024, the home was re-listed at $67.5 million.