No rocking chair for Chelios

Gordie Howe did it, so why not Chris Chelios?

Chelios, age 47, is hoping to continue his playing career with the hometown Chicago Wolves in the American Hockey League, possibly with the intention of eventually returning to the NHL.

Howe -- Mr. Hockey -- was 51 when he scored 15 goals in 80 games for the NHL's Hartford Whalers in 1979-80, so anything is possible.

To say that Chelios is a workhorse in the gym would be quite the understatement. He's still a rock solid 6-foot, 190 pounds and probably would embarrass plenty of players half his age when it comes to workouts.

The three-time Norris Trophy winner as the NHL's best defenseman was limited 28 games last season with the Detroit Red Wings because of a broken leg he sustained in an exhibition game, but he played in six playoff games and isn't ready to retire.

Chelios wasn't offered a new contract by the Red Wings or any other NHL team for this season, and he's expected to skate with the Wolves on Monday after the team returns from a road trip.

Chelios is still popular in Chicago -- he spent parts of nine seasons with the Blackhawks -- and the Wolves would be wise to sign him to a contract. No, he can't log 20-plus minutes a game anymore, but he'd provide veteran leadership and solid minutes when called upon.

This wouldn't be Chelios' first stint in the minors. He played in 23 games with the Motor City Mechanics in the United Hockey League during the 2004-05 lockout season.

"Cheli is a guy who knows how to play and how to help your locker room and so to me he'll be a perfect fit for someone," Red Wings coach Mike Babcock said.

Former Red Wings teammate Nicklas Lidstrom, who knows more than a little about playing defense at an elite level, is in Chelios' corner.

"It's amazing that someone at his age still has the drive and the love of the game and wants to continue to play," Lidstrom said. "All the power to him for still being able to play. He can still contribute to a team, especially with his leadership."

Chelios began his NHL career in 1983-84 with the Montreal Canadiens. He's collected 185 goals and 763 assists in 1,644 career games, the most by an American-born player. He's won three Stanley Cups, played in 11 NHL All-Star Games and been a member of four U.S. Olympic teams.