5 best Chicago Blackhawks of all-time

As we head into the Chicago Blackhawks' 100th season, we look back at the best players in their long and storied history.
Dallas Stars v Chicago Blackhawks
Dallas Stars v Chicago Blackhawks | Luke Hales/GettyImages

The Chicago Blackhawks are entering their centennial season in the NHL. Can you believe it? 100 years of Blackhawks hockey. They're one of the most storied and historic franchises since entering the league in 1926.

From Original Six legends to modern-day stars, the Blackhawks' legacy is built on talent, grit, and unforgettable moments.

Without further ado, here is a look at the five best Blackhawks players of all-time.

5. Glenn Hall (G, 1957-1967)

Glenn Hall was a model of consistency and excellence. He playe 502 consecutive games — an ironman streak that will most likely never be broken by a goalie.

Hall backstopped the Blackhawks to the 1961 Stanley Cup and won three Vezina Trophies (1963, 1967, 1969) during his time in Chicago. Known for his calm style, demeanor, and early use of the butterfly technique, Hall helped define modern goaltending and turned it into what it is today.

4. Jonathan Toews (C, 2007-2023)

Jonathan Toews was the heartbeat of the Blackhawks' 2010 dynasty. Named captain at just 20 years old, he led the Blackhawks to three Stanley Cup titles in 2010, 2013, and 2015.

He won the Conn Smythe Trophy in 2010 and the Selke Trophy in 2013. During his 15-year span with the Blackhawks, he posted 883 points (372 goals, 511 assists) in 1067 games and was one of the best two-way centers in the game.

3. Bobby Hull (LW, 1957-1972)

Known as "The Golden Jet," Bobby Hull was one of the most electrifying goal scorers in NHL history. He holds the franchise record for goals (604) and was the first player in league history to score more than 50 goals in multiple seasons.

Hull won two Hart Trophies (1965, 1966), three Art Ross trophies (1960, 1962, 1966), and helped bring home the Stanley Cup in 1961. His blazing speed and powerful shot changed the game of hockey and turned it into what it is today.

2. Stan Mikita (C, 1958-1980)

Stan Mikita was the face of the Blackhawks for two decades. He leads the franchise in games played (1396), assists (926), and points (1467). He also played a key role in leading the Blackhawks to a Stanley Cup title in 1961.

Mikita won the Hart Trophy twice (1967, 1968), the Art Ross four times (1964, 1965, 1967, 1968), and won the Lady Byng trophy twice (1967, 1968). He was a complete player — dangerous offensively and played the game well on defense. He also helped innovate the game by popularizing the curved stick blade.

1. Patrick Kane (RW, 2007-2023)

Patrick Kane isn't just the best Blackhawks player of the modern era — he may be the greatest in team history. He was the face of the Blackhawks' 2010 dynasty.

A three-time Stanley Cup champion (2010, 2013, and 2015), Kane was known for his clutch performances and elite playmaking. He ranks second in franchise points (1225), assists (779), and third in goals (446). In 2016, he became the first American-born player to win the Hart Trophy as league MVP.

Kane was also clutch in the Blackhawks biggest moments. His overtime goal in Game 6 of the 2010 Stanley Cup Final ended the franchise's 49-year championship drought. Because of his skill and impact on the Blackhawks' dynasty, Kane earns the top spot.

Honorable Mentions

  • Chris Chelios — A key figure on the Blackhawks' defense in the 1990s, Chelios was a two-way force who won the Norris Trophy in 1993 and served as captain in five seasons.
  • Pierre Pilote — A member of the 1961 Stanley Cup team, Pilote was one of the NHL's best defensemen in the early 1960s, winning three Norris Trophies (1963, 1964, and 1965) and captaining the Blackhawks for seven seasons.
  • Tony Esposito — Tony O. was a key player for the Blackhawks in the 1970s. He won three Vezina Trophies (1970, 1972, 1974), the Calder Trophy in 1970, and remains the franchise leader in shutouts (74). His impact on the team was like no other.