Chris Chelios will have his No. 7 retired by the Chicago Blackhawks this upcoming National Hockey League season — and it was Pearl Jam who broke the news on Thursday night.

The popular rock band had a show at the United Center, the home of the Blackhawks. Chelios is a close friend of frontman Eddie Vedder, per ESPN, who brought the Hall of Fame defenseman on stage for the surprise announcement.

The ceremony will take place pregame on Feb. 24 before the Hawks take on the Detroit Red Wings.

Chelios is a Chicago Blackhawks legend who retired from NHL hockey after an incredible 26 seasons. Although he played almost a decade in the Windy City, he played a full decade in Detroit, so both teams being involved will certainly be meaningful for the 61-year-old.

“We are entering a new era of Blackhawks hockey on the ice, but the importance of honoring past members of this organization is, and always will be, a priority,” Blackhawks chairman and CEO Danny Wirtz explained, per ESPN. “Chris Chelios represents not only the Blackhawks, but, given his roots here, the city of Chicago.”

Wirtz confirmed that his father Rocky, the late former owner and chairman of the Blackhawks, wanted Chelios to be the next Hawks player to have his number retired.

“We look forward to celebrating Chris' career in February with his family, friends, and sharing it all with Blackhawks fans,” Wirtz said.

Chris Chelios was a force when he played in the NHL; he won three Stanley Cups (two with the Wings, one with the Montreal Canadiens), and three Norris Trophies as the league's top defenseman.

He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2013, and will add a prestigious Hawks milestone as well in February.