In a move that has sent shockwaves through the hockey world, the Chicago Blackhawks have announced that franchise legend Denis Savard will be returning to the organization in 2025—not behind the bench or on the ice, but as a co-owner. The historic announcement was made earlier today by the Wirtz family, longtime owners of the Blackhawks, in a press conference that united generations of fans and players alike. The return of Savard not only marks a new era for the Blackhawks but also brings full circle one of the most storied careers in the franchise’s history.
A Homecoming for a Legend
Denis Savard, whose name is synonymous with the Chicago Blackhawks, played 13 of his 17 NHL seasons with the team and remains one of the most beloved figures in the history of the franchise. Known for his electrifying playmaking ability, iconic “spin-o-rama” moves, and fiery passion on the ice, Savard was not just a player—he was the heartbeat of the team during the 1980s and early 1990s. With over 1,000 career points and an induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2000, Savard’s resume is as impressive as his skating.
Now, more than 30 years after his final game with the team, Savard is stepping into a new role that will shape the future of the franchise for years to come.
“This is more than a business move; it’s a legacy move,” said Danny Wirtz, CEO of the Blackhawks and member of the Wirtz family. “Denis has always represented the spirit and soul of Chicago hockey. Bringing him back as co-owner ensures that our organization remains grounded in its values, history, and community.”
A Longstanding Relationship
Savard’s relationship with the Blackhawks has remained strong through the years, even after his retirement. He served as a team ambassador for many years, and from 2006 to 2008, he held the position of head coach for the Blackhawks during a pivotal transitional period that would later see the team emerge as a modern dynasty. Though his tenure as head coach was brief, his leadership and mentoring of younger players such as Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane helped set the stage for the Blackhawks’ resurgence in the early 2010s.
Savard’s influence has also extended beyond the ice. He has been active in various charitable and community endeavors in Chicago, often using his platform to promote youth hockey programs, cancer research, and educational initiatives. As co-owner, his reach and impact are expected to grow even further.
“I’ve always said Chicago is my home,” Savard said during the press conference. “To be welcomed back in this way, not just as part of the organization but as part of the ownership group—it’s deeply humbling. I’m excited to help lead this franchise into its next chapter.”
Strategic Vision for the Future
While the specifics of Savard’s stake in the ownership group have not been disclosed, his new role will reportedly include significant influence over hockey operations, player development, and fan engagement initiatives. According to sources close to the organization, Savard’s involvement is aimed at blending hockey tradition with innovation, ensuring that the Blackhawks maintain their storied identity while also evolving with the times.
In recent years, the Blackhawks have faced a number of challenges—both on and off the ice. After a decade of dominance that included three Stanley Cup victories in 2010, 2013, and 2015, the team has been in a rebuilding phase. The addition of young stars like Connor Bedard has reignited hope among the fanbase, but there is still a long road ahead to return to championship contention.
“Denis brings not just experience, but perspective,” said General Manager Kyle Davidson. “He’s lived through the highs and the lows. He understands what it takes to win in Chicago—and more importantly, what it takes to build something lasting.”
A Unifying Figure in a Time of Transition
In many ways, Savard’s return is symbolic. The Blackhawks, like many legacy NHL franchises, are grappling with how to honor their past while embracing the future. Bringing in a figure like Savard helps bridge that divide. He is a living link between eras, a player who played through the Original Six’s legacy days and helped mentor stars in the league’s modern era.
His return as co-owner is expected to galvanize not only the fanbase but also former players and current staff. Several Blackhawks alumni, including Chris Chelios and Jeremy Roenick, have publicly expressed their support and enthusiasm for the announcement.
“This is the best thing that could happen to the Blackhawks,” Roenick posted on social media. “Denis understands the game, the fans, the city. He’s one of us.”
Community Roots and Cultural Impact
Savard’s return also has a deeply personal meaning for the city of Chicago. The French-Canadian-born forward has long been considered an adopted son of the Windy City, and his involvement in community initiatives has only solidified that status. As co-owner, he is expected to spearhead efforts aimed at expanding access to youth hockey programs on the city’s South and West Sides—areas that have historically been underrepresented in the sport.
“Representation matters,” said Savard. “When I came into the league, there weren’t a lot of guys who looked like me or came from where I came from. I want every kid in Chicago to feel like they have a shot—not just at playing hockey, but at being part of something bigger.”
A New Chapter Begins
The announcement comes at a pivotal time for the NHL as a whole. With expansion franchises, changing demographics, and evolving fan engagement strategies, the league is in a period of transformation. The Blackhawks’ decision to bring in a figure like Denis Savard as co-owner reflects a broader trend of legacy players taking on leadership roles and helping shape the next generation of the sport.
For Chicago, the move is more than just a business transaction—it’s a statement of purpose. It’s a signal that the franchise is ready to embrace its roots while looking ahead, and that it values the voices of those who built its foundation.
As Savard put it at the end of his remarks: “This isn’t the end of a story—it’s the beginning of a new one. Let’s make history again.”
In bringing back one of their most iconic figures as co-owner, the Blackhawks are not just honoring their past—they’re investing in their future. And for Denis Savard, the journey that began in a Blackhawks jersey now continues in the boardroom, with the same passion, pride, and commitment that defined his Hall of Fame career.