The hockey world is mourning the loss of Dennis Hull, a former Chicago Blackhawks standout who passed away on Saturday at the age of 81, according to a team announcement.
The Blackhawks organization shared the news without providing additional details about his death, with team owner and CEO Danny Wirtz releasing a statement honoring the veteran forward.
“The Chicago Blackhawks are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Dennis Hull earlier this morning,” Wirtz said. “Dennis enjoyed a distinguished career built on his scoring ability and consistency, leaving lasting contributions not only to the Blackhawks franchise but to the game itself.”
During his NHL career spanning 14 seasons, Hull spent his first 13 years in Chicago from 1964 to 1977, before concluding his playing days with the Detroit Red Wings following a trade in the 1977-78 season.
The talented forward earned recognition as a five-time All-Star, appearing in consecutive All-Star Games from 1970-71 through 1973-74, and received second-team NHL All-Star honors during the 1972-73 campaign.
Throughout his regular season career, Hull accumulated 654 points with 303 goals and 351 assists, along with a plus-22 rating across 959 games. His postseason performance included 67 points on 33 goals and 34 assists over 104 playoff contests. He represented Chicago in three Stanley Cup Finals appearances in 1965, 1971, and 1973.
“Known around the league for his immense skill, toughness and intelligence, Dennis was as dominant on the ice as he was beloved off it,” Wirtz said. “He often drew on his sharp wit and sense of humor to keep the locker room loose, while his warmth and humility made everyone he met feel welcome.
“On behalf of the Wirtz family and the entire Blackhawks organization, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Dennis’s family, friends and teammates, and the many fans who adored him.”
Born in Point Anne, Ontario, Canada, Hull earned the nickname “Silver Jet” while his brother Bobby was known as the “Golden Jet.” Bobby Hull, who passed away in January 2023 at 84, received Hockey Hall of Fame induction in 1983.
Dennis Hull also represented Canada in international competition, participating in the historic 1972 Summit Series against the Soviet Union. He contributed two goals and two assists across four games as Canada claimed victory in the series.
