Keith keeps everything in perspective

Duncan Keith has had a pretty good first half of the season.

And that's putting it mildly.

Keith not only has become one of the NHL's elite defensemen and perhaps the leading candidate for the Norris Trophy, he recently signed a Blackhawks-record 13-year, $72 million contract extension and on Wednesday was named to Canada's Olympic team.

"I don't think you really get satisfied with anything that has happened," Keith said. "For me personally, it's taking it one day at a time here and playing hard for the Blackhawks.

"We have a fun team and a fun group to be around. With so many good players there are good things going to happen for individuals. It's important not to look too far ahead and be satisfied with things that have happened or things that I've done. I've tried to keep a level head and never stop."

Keith and Brent Seabrook have been maybe the best shutdown duo in the NHL this season and can expect to be partners on the Canadian Olympic team that Seabrook also made.

"The way he plays really helps my game," Keith said of his partner. "Right from the get-go it was a pretty good pairing. To be able to play with him and read off him, he's a defenseman who's a big strong guy who's smart and is always in position. I always know he's going to give me an out on the ice."

The fact that Keith and Seabrook are so familiar with each other was a big factor in them making the Canadian team.

"I think that definitely helped us out and will help us in the tournament as well," Seabrook said.

Tough cut: Jonathan Toews, Duncan Keith and Brent Seabrook wished Patrick Sharp could be joining them at the Olympics. Sharp didn't make what was a difficult cut for Canadian officials.

"I think Sharpie was right there and he's been great for us," Keith said.

First meeting: John Madden faces his former New Jersey teammates tonight for the first time since signing with the Hawks as a free agent. Madden spent nine seasons with the Devils and was instrumental in them winning two Stanley Cups. Madeen recently told the New York Post that he would love to score a goal against old pal Martin Brodeur.

Tip-ins: The Hawks were off Wednesday, so only coach Joel Quenneville knows if Cristobal Huet or Antti Niemi starts in goal tonight against New Jersey. ... Huet was pulled in Tuesday's 5-4 loss at Dallas after allowing 4 goals on 10 shots. ... Rockford forwards Jack Skille and Mark Cullen have been named American Hockey League all-stars.