Ben Smith Re-Signs With Chicago Blackhawks

Congratulations to Boston College alum and 2013 Stanley Cup Champion Ben Smith, who inked a two year, $3.0 million contract extension with the Chicago Blackhawks days before he would have become a restricted free agent.

Ben Smith's NHL story has been one of the most impressive of all BC's recent alums playing in the NHL, as he went from being mostly a lower line, grinding forward for BC to a guy who managed to become a regular on one of the most consistent teams in the league. He was always known for his leadership and work ethic while at BC, but he has shown scoring touch as well in Chicago, scoring 26 points in 75 games in 2013-2014.

Prior to locking up his lineup spot this year, Smith spent most of the previous two seasons with the AHL Rockford IceHogs, coming up at the end of last season and playing in one game in the Stanley Cup Finals.

At The Heights, Smith was part of the outstanding 2010 class that won three Hockey East championships, advanced to the national championship game three times, and took home two national titles. Smith's strongest offensive season at BC was in 2008 when he scored 50 points. After a step back in 2009, Smith scored 37 points and provided strong senior leadership during the 2010 championship season.

Congratulations to Ben and best wishes to him as his NHL career continues.