Blackhawks extend 21 year old forward to $46 million contract
The Chicago Blackhawks have extended Frank Nazar to a 7 year $6.6 million contract today via Frank Seravalli. The contract does not kick in until the 26-27 season, which will take the deal until 2033.
Frank Nazar recorded 12 goals and 14 assists for 26 points in 53 games with the Blackhawks last season. He also played 3 games with the organization in the 23-24 season, where he scored his first NHL goal on his first ever shot.
It may seem early for Nazar to receive such a lucrative contract, but the Blackhawks believe he will be a core piece of their forward group. To get Frank locked up the summer before his entry level contract expires is a win for the Hawks as there’s a good chance the Detroit native has a breakout campaign this upcoming season. The Hawks focus can now shift to locking up their franchise player Connor Bedard who is also eligible for a new deal, although he may not sign until next offseason.
What drove Chicago to sign Nazar to this deal?
Nazar played his best hockey towards the end of the 24-25 campaign, especially in the last month of the season where he produced at a point per game rate. He also represented Team USA in the World Championship where he was the club’s leading producer with 12 points in 7 games. He was recently invited to Team USA’s Olympic Orientation Camp, where he will have an opportunity to push for a spot in the lineup.
The Hawks are in the midst of a rebuild so securing a player who they believe will be a prime piece of the puzzle to a long term contract of this nature early has the chance to age very well. They have the cap space, so the risk is worth taking. It will be a sight to see what Nazar can do this season and beyond as he looks to make his mark in Chicago.
