Duncan Keith: A Rising Star in the NHL

While remaining a relative unknown to the average hockey fan, Duncan Keith is beginning to make his name with his solid two-way play—and the NHL has taken notice, placing Keith in his first NHL All-Star game.

Keith is only 24 years old and in his third NHL season. Although he isn't putting up blinding numbers (5G, 12A, in 44GP), he is beginning to log massive minutes for the Blackhawks and his point production is steadily improving.

He is an ultra-smooth, fast-paced skater capable of rushing the puck and still being back in time to maintain his defensive duties.

At only 6-feet and 187 lbs, Keith isn't your prototypical NHL defenseman. However, he is positionally sound and knows how to play the angles and use his body position to thwart larger players.

He also has a very active stick.

Keith has a seemingly tremendous hockey IQ—he is rarely out of position and is excellent at making the first pass out of his own zone.

Keith was very instrumental in the Blackhawks shootout victory over the Nashville Predators on Sunday night. The most notable play, was a Robert Lang turnover in overtime. David Legwand picked up the puck and appeared to be on a straight breakaway against Blackhawks netminder Patrick Lalime.

Out of nowhere came Keith, who started about 10 strides behind Legwand, came flying back at top speed, and nullified Legwand's breakaway with a perfectly timed diving poke check, leaving Legwand stunned.

It was a tremendous play and the Blackhawks ended up winning the game in a shootout thanks to another impressive newcomer, Patrick Sharp.

Keith is an emerging star. Expect him to only get better in future years.