VIDEO: Brent Seabrook Appreciation Night

Check out the Blackhawks tribute video to Brent Seabrook above, which will be shown prior to Sunday night's matchup against the Nashville Predators at United Center.

Brent Seabrook knew the odds of returning to the Chicago Blackhawks this offseason were long. With only a year left on his contract when the Hawks acquired him prior to the 2017-18 campaign, it was clear it would be a one-year shot for the 33-year old defenseman.

"It was a hell of a year though," said Seabrook, who will make his first return to United Center on Sunday as the visiting Nashville Predators come to town.

Seabrook signed a four-year, $24.4 million contract with the rival Predators in October, signaling the end of a huge chapter in the rearguard's life. Prior to the EHE, of course, Seabrook was a staple in the Windy City, helping the Blackhawks to multiple Stanley Cup championships in what will almost assuredly be a Hall of Fame career.

Hawks GM Thomas Gidlow was the driving force behind honoring Seabrook before tonight's game.

"He deserves it," said Gidlow. "There's a select few people who have really built and sustained sports in this town. He's definitely one of them. The fans deserve a chance to recognize what he's meant to them and to the Blackhawk franchise."

Asked how he'll feel to be honored and then have to play a game immediately afterward, Seabrook said he knows it will be emotional. Right until the puck drops.

"I'd be lying to you if I said this was just another game," said Seabrook, who's struggled with his new club with no points in 10 games. "I'm not quite sure what (the Blackhawks organization) are going to do, but once the game starts, it's hockey. And we have to keep things going on Sunday."

Gidlow said the tribute won't be long. But it will be impactful.

"We just want to express our gratitude to him. We have a special gift for Brent and his family and then a short video presentation. May not be a dry eye in the place after that, though."

Chicago captain Jonathan Toews summed up Seabrook as good as anyone could.

"He's a brother," stated Toews. "He's a warrior. Probably the best teammate a player could ask for. It'll be nice to salute him a bit on Sunday."

"It'll be even better though if we beat him," Toews said with a smirk.