On Saturday, the Chicago Blackhawks announced that legendary forward Dennis Hull has died at the age of 81.
on behalf of the Wirtz family and Chicago Blackhawks organization, we mourn the passing of Dennis Hull❤️
— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) May 31, 2026
we extend our deepest condolences to the Hull family during this time.https://t.co/oafhCuX63g pic.twitter.com/ZptDCBfGfS
In a statement, Blackhawks chairman and CEO Danny Wirtz explained that Hull made a lasting impact
“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,” Wirtz wrote. “Known around the league for his immense skill, toughness and intelligence, Dennis was as dominant on the ice as he was beloved off it. 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.”
Over the course of 959 regular-season games, Hull amassed 303 goals and 351 assists for 654 career points. He appeared in five NHL All-Star Games and was named a Second-Team NHL All-Star during the 1972-73 season, a campaign where he dominated with 39 goals and 90 points before leading the Blackhawks in playoff scoring to reach the Stanley Cup Final.
However, his most iconic hockey moment arrived on the international stage. During the legendary 1972 Summit Series against the Soviet Union, Dennis stepped into the spotlight when Bobby was excluded from the team due to his defection to the World Hockey Association. Skating on a dynamic line alongside New York Rangers stars Jean Ratelle and Rod Gilbert, Dennis registered two goals and two assists in four games, helping propel Canada to its historic victory.