The Chicago Blackhawks are calling up their top prospect, Frank Nazar, to take on the New Jersey Devils.
It is finally happening. The transaction that Chicago Blackhawks fans have been waiting for is done. The Hawks have called up top prospect Frank Nazar from the Rockford IceHogs.
Nazar was one of Chicago’s three first-round picks in the 2022 NHL Draft (13th overall). He made his NHL debut at the end of last season as he played 3 games with the Hawks after Michigan’s season was over. He scored his first career NHL goal during that stint.
Frank Nazar has been one of the best forwards in the AHL so far this season as he currently has 24 points in 21 games played which leads all rookies. To say he’s been excellent would be an understatement. He’s deserved this opportunity for a while now and he will finally get it.
The young forward is expected to make his season debut on Saturday afternoon as the Chicago Blackhawks will take on the New Jersey Devils. Nazar will go up against his college teammate Luke Hughes in that game.
Chicago has lacked secondary scoring for most of the season. Connor Bedard could use some help and Nazar is capable of providing a spark. If he fits in right away, they may have solved their second-line center issue.
Interim head coach Anders Sorensen has played a big role in Nazar’s big season so far in the AHL. Now, Sorensen is tasked with the job of getting Nazar going in the big leagues.
If Nazar struggles, there will be no harm in sending him right back down to continue his development. If he plays well right away, he may be up for good. It’s all up to him but he deserves this chance.
New Jersey plays a high-octane game so Nazar will have to have his legs going as he usually does. His ability to create for himself and his teammates should be on full display.
The youth movement didn’t just begin with this Nazar news but this is a sign that it is ready to take another step. It won’t be long before some of his Rockford teammates make their way up.
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