Report: Blackhawks, Brent Seabrook nearing extension deal

The Blackhawks and defenseman Brent Seabrook are nearing completion of a contract extension, according to the Chicago Tribune’s Chris Kuc.

The Blackhawks and defenseman Brent Seabrook are nearing completion of a contract extension, according to the Chicago Tribune’s Chris Kuc.

Seabrook has been with Chicago for all three of the organization’s Stanley Cup victories over the last six years, and was recently named an alternate captain by coach Joel Quennville, joining captain Jonathan Toews and fellow alternate Duncan Keith.

“I’m very honored to be a part of the (leadership) group up here and wear a letter for the Chicago Blackhawks,” Seabrook said.

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The 30-year-old is set to become a free agent in 2016 if he and the Blackhawks are unable to reach an agreement on an extension to Seabrook’s expiring five-year, $29 million contract.

Seabrook had a +/- rating of 5 during the team’s championship run through the playoffs last season, and was second on the team for average time on ice during the playoffs, putting in 26 minutes a game.