40#1Fan 0 Report post Posted September 9, 2009 DETROIT -- Former Red Wings defenseman Chris Chelios still is hoping to play in the NHL this season. But if he doesn't receive an offer he might play for the Chicago Wolves of the AHL, the minor league affiliate for the Atlanta Thrashers. "Anything is possible, except I've ruled out Russia,'' Chelios said Wednesday, after practicing with the Wings at Joe Louis Arena. "That (playing for the Wolves) is a possibility. I talked to the owner, Tony Granato's brother (Don) is the coach. I might skate with them,'' Chelios said. "I've been lucky to be able to skate with (the Wings) but next week (during training camp) I got to keep skating, that's the key.'' For the first time since 1983, Chelios won't be attending an NHL training camp. "I was prepared for it. It's not like I didn't know it wasn't coming,'' Chelios said. "Once everyone is gone, maybe it will be strange, but right now I'm busy with the kids. It'll hit home if I'm not playing in a month or two. I've already prepared myself for after (hockey). I'm not worried about it either way. I want to be play real bad, but if I don't it's been good.'' Chelios said he's spoken to a few NHL teams recently. His chances would increase if a team sustains an injury in camp or the preseason or determines one of its younger players isn't ready for the NHL. "Every team said they got 7-8 (defensemen) under contract,'' Chelios said. "There is some opportunity and they haven't closed the door on me but they're not leading me on either. Everyone I talked to says just be patient.'' Who'll fill Chelios' position as the Wings' NHLPA representative? "That's under investigation, if they want one. Actually, it wouldn't even make a difference, would it?'' Chelios said. Dan Cleary, the club's assistant PA rep, would be the most likely candidate. http://www.mlive.com/redwings/index.ssf/20...ders_offer.html Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
stevkrause 1,247 Report post Posted September 9, 2009 oh come on Cheli! just take the coaching job here and retire with pride! I know you love the game, but this is too far... Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
96warrior 11 Report post Posted September 9, 2009 I feel the same way. Leave with dignity. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Andy Pred 48 337 Report post Posted September 9, 2009 I would have thought the Org would have tried to keep Cheli in the system somewhere. maybe player/coach for the Storm and get him cutting his ready for a bigger role with the senior side in a couple of years. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
dat's sick 1,002 Report post Posted September 9, 2009 I feel the same way. Leave with dignity. A couple of years ago called, they want their post back. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
