Blackhawks Notebook: Steel Deal Final; Danny Wirtz Takes Over

For a Monday in August, there was a lot of Chicago Blackhawks news. From the Wirtz Corporation’s purchase of the Chicago Steel being finalized to other announcements regarding the Wirtz family in the wake of Rocky Wirtz’s passing, there’s a lot to go through.

Wirtz Corp Purchase of Chicago Steel Official

The Chicago Steel formally announced the Wirtz Corporation’s purchase of the team on Monday. Amongst several quotes in the release, the Steel expect to continue building on the success they’ve seen in the past eight seasons–now backed by the Wirtz Corporation.

“We have worked relentlessly to innovate player development and create a highly competitive and collaborative culture in which our players love coming to the rink every day,” said Steel Head Coach and General Manager Mike Garman.  “This transaction will not only sustain what is special about our team and culture but will provide further opportunities to enhance and innovate within the prestigious Wirtz Corporation.”

Danny Wirtz Takes Over As Chairman of the Chicago Blackhawks

There were some questions as to what the succession plan would be but in what many expected, Danny Wirtz is taking over as the chairman of the Blackhawks. A report from Crain’s Business Chicago indicated that the board approved Danny taking over and so goes a new era of Blackhawks leadership.

Bought by Danny’s great-grandfather Arthur Wirtz in 1946, it was Arthur’s son Bill who took over and was vilified by fans for his refusal to spend on the Blackhawks, and trading away fan favorites. When Rocky took over upon his father’s death in 2007, he turned the organization around and the team ended up winning three Cups in six years. Rocky’s legacy took a hit after the Brad Aldrich sexual abuse case with Kyle Beach, and his response to questions at a town hall session.

Rocky’s appearances in public were less following a statement apologizing while Danny Wirtz appeared to be in line as the next chairman.

But no one expected it to be this soon. Danny now takes over as the Blackhawks begin the Connor Bedard era in Chicago.

Public Memorial Remembering Rocky Wirtz

Please join us in honoring the legacy of our late Chairman Rocky Wirtz on Wednesday August 9th.

Details on the event ⬇️https://t.co/LY13LTwF0R

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) July 31, 2023

Per the Blackhawks release, there will be the chance for the public to pay its respects next Wednesday, August 9 at the United Center. Fans are encouraged to donate to the Blackhawks Foundation in lieu of flowers.