This Blackhawks forward has the potential to take that next step in 2026-27.
Chicago Blackhawks forward Frank Nazar is a big part of the Original Six club's present and future. The Blackhawks made that clear when they signed the 22-year-old forward to a seven-year, $46.13 million contract extension last August, which starts during the 2026-27 season.
The Blackhawks' decision to lock up Nazar long-term was not difficult to understand in the slightest. The young forward has a ton of upside and had a solid rookie year in 2024-25, posting 12 goals and 26 points in 53 games.
Nazar followed up landing his long-term contract extension by recording new career highs with 15 goals, 26 assists, and 41 points in 66 games this season. The young forward clearly took a notable step in the right direction this campaign with the Blackhawks.
Yet, with Nazar being so young and having such good upside, the possibility of him hitting another new level for the Blackhawks next season is undoubtedly there.
Nazar is still just 122 games into his NHL career, so he is naturally still growing his game. Because of this, it would not be shocking in the slightest if has an even bigger breakout year for the Blackhawks next season.
It will be interesting to see what kind of season Nazar has in 2026-27 from here, but it is hard not to feel optimistic about his future.