Three-time Stanley Cup champion. Three-time NHL All-Star. Two-time Norris Trophy winner. Two-time Olympic Gold Medalist. 2015 Conn Smythe Trophy winner.
Those are accolades Duncan Keith has earned during his career, but one thing that eludes him — scoring in Game 7s.
Keith is one of the Chicago Blackhawks core players that have played in four Game 7s under coach Joel Quenneville. They’re 2-2 in this scenario under Quenneville, and Monday’s game against the St. Louis Blues at Scottrade Center marks the third time since 2013 the Hawks have come back from a 3-1 deficit to force the decisive game.
Each member of the core has found the scoresheet except for Keith. Captain Jonathan Toews has four goals, Brent Seabrook has a recorded a point in each one (two goals and two assists), Patrick Kane has five assists — all of which have come in the last two Game 7s, Marian Hossa with three points — including the game-winner last year in Anaheim — and even Niklas Hjalmarsson has an assist.
But Keith has found success this series and looks poised finally find the scoresheet in a Game 7.
The 32-year-old defenseman has three goals and an assist against the Blues in just five games. He made his presence felt quickly with a goal and an assist in Game 2 as he returned from serving a six-game suspension for high-sticking Minnesota’s Charlie Coyle in the regular-season. The Hawks won the game 3-2 to even the series. He scored two goals, including a power-play goal in the 4-3 loss in Game 4.
Keith will have plenty of time to score as he’s logged at least 30 minutes of ice time in all three Chicago wins.