After just 56 total NHL games played, Chicago has locked up Frank Nazar for the next eight seasons after signing the 21-year-old to a seven-year contract worth $6.59 million AAV ($46.13M total) on Thursday. Nazar was Chicago's 2022 1st round pick (13th overall) and opened some eyes with nine points in his final eight games to end last season and close his rookie campaign out with 26 points in 53 games played. He is expected to center Chicago's second line and remain on their top power play as we head into the 2025-26 season.

Nazar was the 13th overall pick of the Blackhawks in the 2022 NHL Entry Draft. The 20-year-old forward made his NHL debut last season, scoring one goal in three games. He has 24 points (11G / 13A) in 21 games with the Rockford IceHogs (AHL) this season.

Nazar was the 13th overall pick of the Blackhawks in the 2022 NHL Entry Draft. The 20-year-old forward made his NHL debut last season, scoring one goal in three games. He has 24 points (11G / 13A) in 21 games with the Rockford IceHogs (AHL) this season.

Entering training camp, it seemed as if Nazar had a chance to make the Blackhawks roster after appearing in three games with them at the end of last season. He had a disappointing preseason, though, and will get his first taste of AHL action with Rockford to begin 2024-25.