From ChicagoBlackhawks.com: (link)

General Manager Dale Tallon announced today that the Chicago Blackhawks have signed defenseman Brent Sopel to a three-year contract extension.

Sopel was originally signed by the Blackhawks as a free agent on September 28, 2007.

“Brent has been a key addition to the Blackhawks because of his play on the ice and his leadership in the locker room,” said Tallon. “He contributes in all situations and is a positive influence on our rapidly maturing defensive corps.”

In accordance with club policy, terms of the contract were not disclosed.

Sopel, 31, has appeared in 33 games for the Blackhawks this season, contributing ten assists and picking up 12 penalty minutes. Sopel also owns the second highest plus/minus rating among Blackhawks defensemen at +10.

The Blackhawks next home game is on Friday, January 11 at 7:30 p.m. against the Minnesota Wild. Tickets are available at the United Center Box Office, TicketMaster by calling (312) 559-1212 or by going to www.chicagoblackhawks.com. Single game tickets can also be purchased at HawkQuarters, the Chicago Blackhawks Official Team Store located at 333 N. Michigan Ave. No fees or surcharges apply to tickets purchased at HawkQuarters.