John Madden was a standout player for the University of Michigan from 1993 to 1997. During his time there, he became a key contributor to two NCAA National Championship teams and set an NCAA career record with 23 shorthanded goals. In his final season, he was an AHCA West First-Team All-American and was named a Hobey Baker Award. He finished his collegiate career with 180 points in 160 games.

Despite going undrafted, Madden went on to have a highly successful 13-season career in the NHL, playing for the New Jersey Devils, Chicago Blackhawks, Minnesota Wild, and Florida Panthers. He was widely regarded as one of the league’s best defensive forwards, winning the Frank J. Selke Trophy in 2001. Madden also won the Stanley Cup three times, twice with the Devils in 2000 and 2003, and once with the Blackhawks in 2010. After retiring, he transitioned into coaching and scouting.