Big news out of Chicago—the Blackhawks have officially recalled 20-year-old forward Frank Nazar from the Rockford IceHogs, and fans are buzzing with excitement. Nazar, who was selected 13th overall in the 2022 NHL Draft, is one of the most highly anticipated young talents in the Blackhawks’ pipeline. Now, he’s set to make an immediate impact, and it’s safe to say the hype is real.
The forward kicked off his career with the USA Hockey National Team Development Program (NTDP), where he turned heads with a stellar 2021-22 season. He scored 28 goals and notched 42 assists in 56 games, finishing third on the team in points. That kind of production? It didn’t go unnoticed, and he was quickly regarded as one of the top prospects of his draft class.
After leaving the NTDP, Nazar committed to the University of Michigan, where he continued to impress. But things didn’t go entirely as planned. A lower-body injury sidelined him for most of his freshman year in 2022-23, limiting him to just 13 games. Still, even in a limited role, he showed flashes of the talent that made him such a coveted prospect. But here’s where it gets exciting: Nazar came roaring back in 2023-24. Healthy and hungry, he finished his sophomore season at Michigan with 17 goals and 24 assists in 41 games, quickly becoming one of the team’s top players. His combination of speed, skill, and hockey IQ turned heads once again—and it was clear he was ready to take the next step.
In April 2024, Nazar signed his entry-level contract with the Blackhawks, officially marking the start of his pro career. And on April 14, 2024, he didn’t just make his NHL debut—he made a statement. In his very first NHL game, Nazar scored on his very first shot on goal, netting his first career NHL goal against the Carolina Hurricanes. Talk about a debut to remember!
What makes Frank Nazar stand out? It’s his extraordinary speed and creativity that truly set him apart. With a relentless “never quit” attitude, he’s the type of player who thrives in chaotic situations, consistently making something out of nothing. Whether it’s threading a perfect pass through traffic or using his agility to slip past defenders, Nazar’s game is all about creating opportunities and driving plays forward. Pairing him with rising star Connor Bedard could form an electrifying duo, one that promises to light up the ice for years to come. But Nazar isn’t just an offensive threat—he’s also a well-rounded player, using his quickness to win puck battles and disrupt plays in his own zone. All in all, he’s a dynamic talent who can impact the game at both ends of the rink.
For the Blackhawks, this recall is more than just a chance for fans to see a top prospect in action—it’s a clear sign that the team is committed to developing its young core. With Nazar’s potential and the Blackhawks’ ongoing rebuild, there’s plenty of reason to be excited for the future. As Nazar takes his first steps into the NHL, Blackhawks fans can’t wait to see how his game evolves at the highest level. One thing’s for sure: this is just the beginning for Frank Nazar, and the best is yet to come. Stay tuned, because this kid’s about to make some noise!