Seabrook inks five-year extension with the Blackhawks

The Blackhawks made it official Sunday. Defenseman Brent Seabrook is going to be a part of their blue line for the next five years.

Seabrook and the Hawks agreed to a five-year extension worth $29 million. He will earn $7 million a year in the first two years of the contract and $5 million each over the final three years. His cap hit will be $5.8 million.

“The Blackhawks are the only organization I’ve ever played for, and I’ve been a part of something very special in Chicago over the last six seasons,” Seabrook said. “I’m excited to continue being a part of this group, playing in the United Center and making our fans proud.”

General manager Stan Bowman believes Seabrook’s best years are ahead of him. He has recorded143 assists, 13th all-time by a Hawks defenseman, and 177 points, 16th among Hawks blue-liners, since his NHL debut in 2005.

“We’re excited we still have Brent around,” Bowman said. “He’s been a fixture on our defense. He came up as a 20-year-old kid and didn’t spend any time in the minor leagues. He came right in, made our team and has been an NHL player ever since. Each year he has been getting better. I’m not sure he’s even reached his potential yet.”