Chicago Blackhawks agree to 2-year deal with D Sheldon Brookbank

CHICAGO - The Chicago Blackhawks agreed Sunday to a two-year deal with defenceman Sheldon Brookbank.

"They have a lot of "D'' here. I was told I'd be kinda five or six range," Brookbank said of playing time. "I was more focused on finding an organization that wanted me and Chicago seemed like they wanted me, so hopefully it will be a good fit."

The Blackhawks' top two defenceman are Duncan Keith and Brent Seabrook with Johnny Oduya, Nick Leddy, Niklas Hjalmarsson and Steve Montador also at the blue line. Chicago struggled on special teams last season and Brookbank said he would welcome the chance to help out a penalty kill that ranked 27th.

The 31-year-old Brookbank had a career-high three goals and 11 assists in 80 games with the Ducks last season. He has four goals, 32 assists in 277 career games over seven seasons with Nashville, New Jersey and Anaheim.

"Just kind of steady," Brookbank said, describing his style. "You kind of know what you are getting out of me, not anything really too flashy. I take pride in making a good first pass and trying to play hard and stick up for my teammates."

The Blackhawks announced the deal on Sunday, the opening day of the NHL's free agency period.