Blackhawks Set to Retire Pilote, Magnuson Number

By Marcus Gilmer in News on Nov 12, 2008 5:30PM

The number 3 will be lifted to the United Center rafters tonight as the Chicago Blackhawks honor former greats Pierre Pilote and Keith Magnuson tonight. Pilote played 13 seasons for the Blackhawks during which he won three Norris trophies, was an eight-time All-Star, served as captain for seven seasons, and was part of the last Blackhawks team to win the Stanley Cup (1960-1961). He was also inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1975. While Magnuson wasn't a statistical star, he was a heavy presence for the Blackhawks defense and played for two Stanley Cup final teams (thought the 'Hawks lost both times to Montreal). Magnuson died in a a tragic 2003 car accident. If you still want a chance to catch the ceremony, tickets are still available for tonight's game against Original Six member the Boston Bruins.