 Originally selected in the 1983 NHL Entry Draft by the Chicago Blackhawks, Noonan played parts of seven seasons in Chicago, although during the middle part of his career with the Blackhawks he mainly saw playing time in the minors with the Indianapolis Ice.Noonan would eventually regain a roster spot with the Blackhawks, especially after Mike Keenan became head coach.His play contributed to the team reaching the finals in 1992.