I got the news at 2:07pm on Monday via group text from my brother: Keith gone to Oilers. My response: Wow. My next question on the text was: Best defenseman ever in a Hawks uniform, no? Well, it’s a good question.
In one way, it was a sad day. Whatever your answer is to that question, there is no denying, that Duncan Keith was one of the best Hawks ever, a key cog in the 3-time Stanley Cup winners of the 2010s. At his peak, I’m not sure if I would have wanted anyone else on the back end, clearing pucks, making the tape to tape pass, starting the rush, playing the point on the power play, taking the big shot, firing it on net, making the smart play, saving goals. With his partner in crime Seabrook, the Hawks had an all-time tandem on the defensive end. Seabrook retired due to injuries earlier this year, and now, Keith is gone. That leaves only Kane and Toews from those Cup teams…
On the other hand, it was a smart move by the Hawks. For as good as Keith once was, there is no denying he’s on the decline. Not saying he has nothing left in the tank. Not saying he can’t positively contribute to a young Oilers team looking to win a playoff series. The experience he will bring to that team is something that can’t be measured via stats. We know he’ll show all the young guys how to work, and keep your body in hockey playing shape, doing everything you can to keep your game sharp. But, is that worth the remaining salary he’s owed? The fact that the Oilers are paying all of that, plus we get somebody back, plus we get a pick… can’t argue the return. Obviously I wish Duncs well… The fact that he will be closer to his son, is, well, a no brainer for him; I’m happy for him. That was a nice silver lining to this whole deal.
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There is no question that his number will be hanging from the rafters, maybe a salute to him and Seabrook as the best pair ever? These guys arrived before the return of the Hawks… these guys lasted until the end of these Hawks. We’ve seen them both at their best; we’ve watched their skills decline. We should always remember them for helping to bring 3 Cups, and much happiness to Chicago. Thank you! Thank you Duncan Keith. Another part of the 3 time winning core is gone; Kane and Toews have 2 years left on their deal. Will the dynamic duo see another? If not, then I certainly wouldn’t have a problem seeing #2 get another. Who knows, but I do know, that once Keith steps back on that UC ice in another sweater, with hopefully a full house, finally back at the UC, there will be an ovation like none other. Thanks again #2… you’re #1 in my book.
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