"Michal's style of play is an asset to our defense," said Senior Vice President and General Manager Stan Bowman. "He is the type of player who will continue to improve now that he has transitioned to the National Hockey League. We look forward to his continued development on the ice for the Blackhawks."

The Chicago Blackhawks announced today that they have agreed to terms on a one-year contract extension with defenseman Michal (MY-kuhl) Kempny, which runs through the 2017-18 season.

Kempny notched eight points (2G, 6A) in 50 regular-season contests during the 2016-17 campaign, his first in the National Hockey League. He made his Stanley Cup Playoff debut in Game 4 of the 2017 First Round against the Nashville Predators, registering two hits.

Originally signed by the Blackhawks on May 24, 2016, Kempny registered two goals and one assist with the Czech Republic in eight games at the 2017 World Championship. He also represented his country at the 2016 World Cup of Hockey, and the 2016 World Championship, where he picked up two assists.

The 26-year-old tallied five goals and 16 helpers during the 2015-16 regular season with Avangard Omsk of the Kontinental Hockey League. He added four points (2G, 2A) in 11 playoff games. Kempny also collected 60 points (21G, 39A) over 213 games across six seasons (2009-15) with the Czech Extraliga's HC Kometa Brno and HC Slavia Praha.