Dennis Hull, longtime Blackhawks forward and counterpart to brother Bobby, dies at 81

Former Blackhawks forward Dennis Hull died Saturday at age 81, 3½ years after his brother, Bobby Hull.

Bobby’s stardom and dramatics tended to overshadow Dennis during most of his career, but the younger brother nonetheless enjoyed a very successful NHL career of his own.

Dennis, an Ontario native, recorded 640 points (298 goals and 342 assists) in 904 games over 13 seasons with the Hawks between 1964 and 1977. He overlapped with Bobby in Chicago for eight seasons before Bobby jumped to the startup World Hockey Association’s Winnipeg Jets.

Dennis was named an All Star five times and peaked with a 90-point outburst in 1972-73, which tied for the Hawks’ team lead and for 11th in the league. He stuck with the Hawks for five seasons after Bobby’s departure before spending his final career season with the Red Wings.

He gained the nickname “Silver Jet” as the counterpart to Bobby, the “Golden Jet,” who died at age 84 in January 2023.

But while Bobby’s reputation was tarnished by a history of inappropriate off-ice conduct — marked by allegations of domestic abuse and racism — Dennis proved far more adept at avoiding controversy.

“The Chicago Blackhawks are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Dennis Hull earlier [Saturday] morning,” Hawks chairman Danny Wirtz said in a statement. “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.

“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.”