Blackhawks sign veteran center John Madden

Jul 2, 2009 - 9:51 PM CHICAGO(AP) -- The Chicago Blackhawks signed John Madden on Thursday, adding a veteran center who has spent his entire 10-year career with the New Jersey Devils.

The 36-year-old Madden signed a one-year contract. Terms were not disclosed.

Madden helped the Devils make the playoffs the last nine seasons, including Stanley Cup titles in 2000 and 2003. He has 140 goals and 157 assists for his career during the regular season. A year ago, he had 16 assists and seven goals in 76 games.

"John is a proven winner and one of the premier defensive forwards in the game who also has the talent to contribute with timely offense," Blackhawks general manager Dale Tallon said. "Adding his experience to our team is an important piece to the puzzle."

Earlier this week, the Blackhawks signed Marian Hossa to a 12-year, $62.8 million deal and added forward Tomas Kopecky. Those two played last season with Detroit. The Blackhawks also lost last season's leading scorer Martin Havlat, who signed a six-year deal with Minnesota.

Madden, who is from Barrie, Ontario, and played at Michigan, won the Frank J. Selke Trophy in 2001 as the NHL's best defensive forward. He was runner-up for the award in 2003, 2004 and 2008.