Dennis Hull, known for his exceptional two-way play in the NHL and as a pivotal member of the Chicago Blackhawks, passed away on Friday night at the age of 81. Hull was renowned for playing alongside his legendary brother, Bobby Hull, and for his significant contribution to Canada’s victory in the 1972 Summit Series.
His brother Garry Hull confirmed the news of Dennis’s passing, which was further validated by his nephew, Bart Hull, through a social media post on Saturday. The Chicago Blackhawks also released an official statement from owner Danny Wirtz, although specifics surrounding his death remain undisclosed.
Over the course of his 14-season career, Dennis Hull spent 13 seasons with the Blackhawks before concluding his tenure with the Detroit Red Wings. Hull’s prowess on the ice was recognized with five All-Star Game appearances and a second-team NHL All-Star honor in the 1972-73 season.
“Dennis Hull’s remarkable career was marked by his scoring precision and unwavering consistency, leaving an indelible mark on the Blackhawks and the sport as a whole,” remarked Wirtz. “Known for his exceptional skill, resilience, and intellect, Dennis was a formidable presence on the ice and cherished off it. His quick wit and humor uplifted the locker room atmosphere, while his genuine warmth and humility endeared him to all who crossed his path.”
In the famous 1972 Summit Series, Dennis Hull played a crucial role for Canada, despite his brother Bobby’s absence due to his involvement with the World Hockey Association. Dennis contributed two goals and two assists over four games, playing alongside New York Rangers luminaries Jean Ratelle and Rod Gilbert.
While brother Bobby was excluded from playing for Canada against the Soviet Union in ’72 because he was in the World Hockey Association, Dennis went and had two goals and two assists in four games, playing on a line with New York Rangers stars Jean Ratelle and Rod Gilbert.
Hull had 303 goals and 351 assists for 654 points in 959 regular-season NHL games. He had another 67 points in 104 games in the playoffs, during an era Chicago came close but never won the Stanley Cup.
Bobby Hull, the Hall of Famer known as the “Golden Jet,” died at 84 in January 2023.
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