Blackhawks' Svedberg on Chara: 'Hard to compare to him (other) than the size'

Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Viktor Svedberg doesn't have to look up to anyone in the NHL ... well, other than Boston Bruins captain Zdeno Chara.

While they are close in size - Svedberg is officially listed at 6-foot-8 while the 38-year-old Chara is an inch taller - the former knows he doesn't measure up to the towering veteran in terms of accomplishment.

"It's hard to compare to one of the best players in the league," Svedberg told the Blackhawks' team website. "Obviously a Norris Trophy winner and a great player. Hard to compare to him (other) than the size. ... He's a good player and a great role model."

Brent Seabrook is also a good player and one that has helped Svedberg get acclimated to the NHL, the latter said on Thursday.

Svedberg has seen significant minutes in the wake of the injury to reigning Conn Smythe Trophy winner and two-time Norris Trophy recipient Duncan Keith, who is expected to return this weekend. 

The 24-year-old Swede, who logged 20:12 of ice time in Sunday's victory over the Edmonton Oilers, has collected one goal and one assist in 14 games with the Blackhawks this season.