During an emotional Hockey Hall of Fame induction ceremony, Calgary Flames player development coach Brent Seabrook received a heartfelt tribute from his former defensive partner Duncan Keith, highlighting their remarkable 1,000-game partnership that defined an era of Chicago Blackhawks hockey.
A Special Shout-Out at Hockey's Highest Honor
Duncan Keith, while being honored as part of the Hockey Hall of Fame's Class of 2025, surprised the audience by dedicating a significant portion of his induction speech to praising his longtime blue-line partner. Keith revealed that playing over 1,000 games alongside Seabrook ranked among his favorite NHL moments, alongside their three Stanley Cup championships.
The former Blackhawks star shared touching anecdotes about their partnership, including how Seabrook would "honk his horn outside my house, calling my phone, making sure I was up and ready to catch the plane." Keith emphasized that this dedication typified Seabrook's character as a teammate.
From Championship Partnership to Coaching Role
The recognition comes at an interesting transition point in Seabrook's hockey career. After wrapping up his playing days, which included 1,114 NHL appearances, the 40-year-old joined the Calgary Flames this past summer as a player development coach.
Seabrook's extensive experience makes him particularly valuable in his new role. During the Blackhawks' championship run from 2010-2015, he ranked second among all NHL players in total playoff ice-time, trailing only Keith himself. This championship pedigree represents exactly what the Flames organization hopes to instill in their young defensive prospects.
Mentoring Calgary's Next Generation
Since joining the Flames, Seabrook has become an integral part of the team's development system. He has been frequently spotted at practices this fall, working closely with top prospect Zayne Parekh before the talented teenager's recent injury.
Flames director of player development Ray Edwards praised Seabrook's impact, noting that "if you look analytically at our defencemen with the Wranglers, they have all improved." Edwards emphasized that Seabrook serves as "a great voice for Zayne, somebody he can bang stuff off the walls with."
Head coach Ryan Huska added that Seabrook's experience makes him "a valuable source of information for not only the players but coaching staffs," particularly valuable for young defencemen seeking guidance on handling various game situations.
When the Flames are on the road or have off-days, Seabrook often works with the AHL's Calgary Wranglers, sharing insights from his extensive career with players like Hunter Brzustewicz and Etienne Morin who are working toward NHL careers.
The special recognition during Monday's Hall of Fame ceremony underscores how Seabrook's legacy continues to influence the next generation of hockey talent, now from the development side in Calgary.
