Former Red Wings player Jake Chelios only played five NHL games and yet he very much enjoyed a lengthy professional career after leaving Michigan State.
The son of Chris Chelios announced his retirement this week after a 12-year international career that included games in the ECHL, American Hockey League, NHL and Kontinental Hockey League. He played the last six seasons for the KHL’s Kunlun Red Star.
The Red Star rebranded into the Shanghai Dragons recently, and Chelios used the team’s social media to say goodbye.
“As my career comes to an end,” Chelios said. “I want to thank everyone I’ve had the privilege of working with over the last six years. Fans, thank you for your support. No matter where our ‘home’ has been. Boss, thank you. Management and staff, thank you for your support. You work your ass off every day to keep the team going and growing. To my teammates and their families, thank you. My wife and I have had the rare opportunity to play and travel the world with these amazing people and have made friends for life.”
THANK YOU CHELLY!
Defenseman Jake Chelios is not returning to Shanghai Dragons
Six seasons in the KHL, the most games ever played by a defenseman in our team’s history. An Olympian and World Championship contender with Team China. pic.twitter.com/fMmINmFpPn
— Shanghai Dragons (@shadragons) August 10, 2025
Chelios played all of his NHL games with Detroit in 2018-19, the same season he played 61 games for the Grand Rapids Griffins. He played four seasons for the Spartans before turning pro.
He is retiring at 34, leaving him a bit short of his dad’s retirement age. Chris Chelios was 48 when he hung up his skates.he
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