Frank Nazar's impressive 2024-25 season demonstrates everything the Blackhawks need to convince them that they can be a central part of their long-term plan.
The Hawks cement Nazar's future Thursday, with a new seven-year contract.
The 21-year-old striker has a year left in the entry-level contract before the deal (will bring in $6.59 million in salary hats – starting in 2026-27.
“Frank improved his game last season and proved himself to be one of the biggest young talents in the league,” General Manager Kyle Davidson said in a statement.
“He uses his elite speed and playing skills to drive and creates problems for his opponents and teammates every night. Frank is an integral part of our team and we are excited to be with us for the next eight seasons.”
Nazar and Connor Bedard both qualify for the July 1 expansion, but think both may not sign until next summer.
Bedard may eventually wait, partly because he will seek a salary above $6.6 million – despite repeated comments that he does intend to sign for a long term, he has misleading speculation about any he wants to play elsewhere. But for Nazar, the $6.6 million offer is obviously convincing enough.
Nazar scored 26 points in 53 games last season as an NHL rookie, but he far outperformed his work. As the season progresses, his work does improve. He scored nine points in eight games in April.
This story will be updated.