Duncan Keith's experience representing his country at the 2010 Winter Olympic Games had a golden ending on Sunday afternoon at Canada Hockey Place in Vancouver. With a nation watching and cheering, Canada defeated the United States by a 3-2 score in an overtime thriller that will long be remembered for one of the sport's most dramatic finishes.
Keith played a larger role than many had expected on the Canada blueline, partnering with L.A. Kings phenom Drew Doughty through the tournament's final games to form a fast, dependable, puck-moving unit.
The former Penticton Panther made his mark in the Gold Medal battle, assisting on Corey Perry's second period goal and finishing a +2 for the game. His six assists during the seven-game tournament led all Canadian defencemen, and his steady play in his own zone earned constant praise from his coaches and from the media.
Keith was the top scorer amongst NHL defencemen to participate at the 2010 Games. In a short time, he has gone from being one of the National Hockey League's most underappreciated blueliners to being recognized as one of its best. Through 61 games this season, his 53 points place him second in the league amongst defencemen while he continues to be near the top of the league in plus/minus for the third consecutive campaign.
