CHICAGO — Duncan KeithHeard loud, sustained cheers coming from all corners of the United Center.
It was exactly the same as old times, but it was also very different.
Keith played his first NHL game Thursday night at his NHL home. ChicagoHe was traded to the Edmonton OilersJuly
Keith, 38 years old, received a warm ovation as he was introduced to Edmonton’s starting line-up. But the Blackhawks displayed a highlight video of Keith during the Blackhawks’ first period.
Keith waved from Edmonton’s bench and received a standing ovation. Keith rose from Edmonton’s bench to wave and climbed onto the ice, waving his stick in appreciation.
“I spent a lot time here. After practicing at the United Center, Keith stated Wednesday that it was nice to be back.
Keith was a top NHL defenseman during 16 years spent in Chicago. He won the Norris Trophy twice, and the Stanley Cup three times. In 2015, the Blackhawks brought home the championship and awarded him the Conn Smythe Trophy for playoff MVP.
After spending long periods apart last season, Keith approached the Blackhawks to trade for Western Canada.
“It’s been pleasant. Keith stated that he has been able to visit him more often. Keith said that he enjoyed the visits and being able get home for short breaks. “It’s been everything I hoped it would be. [for].”
Keith’s return to Chicago coincided as the Blackhawks paid tribute to Keith. Niklas HjalmarssonAnother key defenseman of the team’s three Stanley Cup championships in six seasons was Hjalmarsson. Hjalmarsson, who was traded to Arizona in May 2017, retired in July.
Hjalmarsson received a standing ovation and was honoured with a highlight video from pregame. He ended the celebration by dropping a ceremonial hockey puck between Keith, Blackhawks captain. Jonathan Toews.
Chicago selected Keith in the second round, 2002 draft. Keith is a native of Winnipeg, Manitoba. He made his NHL debut with the Blackhawks in 2005. He had 105 goals, 520 assists and played in 1,192 regular-season NHL games.
Blackhawks forward: “He was a great friend.” Dylan StromeThursday. He was a jokester, you know. He’s a big jokester, loves to have fun and keep things light in the room. But he’s also one of the most serious men when it comes to ice hockey. He is a warrior and a man Edmonton is lucky to have.
Keith returned to Chicago from the Oilers on Wednesday. They created a corridor with their sticks that Keith could walk under as he made his way to the visiting locker rooms.
“He’s been incredible. He’s a great leader and has stepped in as the Oilers’ forward Kailer Yamamoto said. He’s a role model for me. He was a great role model for me growing up. I saw him win Cups here. He’s a great guy in the locker room.