Seabrook plays hero role for Blackhawks

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Brent Seabrook had the unenviable duty of going up against some of the Anaheim Ducks most potent offensive and physical threats on Tuesday night.

The Blackhawks defenseman was up to the task29-plus minutes worth up to the task. He was hitting, he was blocking shots and he was part of a penalty kill that went 5-for-6, including 3-for-3 in the third period.

Killing penalties is always tough, Seabrook said. And against them, youve got skilled, big forwards who are good in front of the net, can make plays and have big shots. It was definitely something had to get done last night.

The Blackhawks did, and Seabrooks strong outing was a big help to that end. But whether its against the Ducks or another team, even strength or on the penalty kill, Seabrook has been one of the Blackhawks most consistent defensemen.

Last night he was physical, had a real good game, said coach Joel Quenneville, whos liked what hes seen from Seabrook as well as his defensive partner Niklas Hjalmarsson. Defending against those big guys as much as (Seabrook) did, thats a big nights work. When you have a guy like him playing against top lines, its tough on those guys knowing he can be physical and wearing. It can make for a long night.

It also made for a long night for Seabrook, as his 29:13 time on ice was his highest since March of 2008and 7:16 of those were on the penalty kill. He had three blocked shots and now leads the team with 21. And against a Ducks team that loves to be physical, Seabrook had a team-high seven hits.

Im trying not to take myself out of the play to take a big hit, Im just playing the same way Ive always played, he said. Some games (the hits) come more than other games. Last night was sort of one of those games.

Seabrook is steady and not flashy on the ice. He doesnt always garner the headlines, but his game earns him plenty of respect.

In this room we appreciate what he brings to the team. Hes been around the long time and he brings a lot of leadership here, too, said former partner Duncan Keith. Everybody here knows his importance and certainly guys around the league know hes a big strong guy and tough to play against.

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