ATLANTA — The Thrashers recalled 48-year-old defenseman Chris Chelios, an 11-time all-star, from their minor- league affiliate Wednesday.
Chelios has played in more games than any other American-born NHL player, and he joins the Thrashers after getting five goals and 17 assists in 46 games with Chicago of the American Hockey League.
The Thrashers, who play at Columbus tonight, are looking for Chelios to provide a spark and help snap a three-game losing streak.
Chelios, who has played 25 NHL seasons, is the second- oldest to play in the NHL. Only Gordie Howe, who played at 52, was older.
GMs to propose rule change
BOCA RATON, Fla. — NHL general managers will recommend a rule change on blindside hits to the head, looking to protect players and punish those responsible in a game that has become faster and rougher.
The GMs will recommend to the competition committee that referees call a minor or major penalty for any hit where the primary point of contact is the head. Such a violation would be reviewed for possibly further discipline.
The Associated Press
