Chicago Blackhawks sign veteran centre John Madden away from the Devils

CHICAGO - The Chicago Blackhawks have signed John Madden, a centre who has spent his entire 10-year career with the New Jersey Devils.

The 36-year-old Madden signed a one-year contract Thursday. He joins the Blackhawks a day after they signed Marian Hossa to a 12-year, US$62.8 million deal and added forward Tomas Kopecky. Those two played last season with Detroit.

Madden helped the Devils make the playoffs the last nine seasons, including Stanley Cup titles in 2000 and 2003. He has 140 goals and 157 assists for his career during the regular season.

A year ago, he had 16 assists and seven goals in 76 games.