Chicago Blackhawks Secure Frank Nazar for the Long Haul with $46.13M Deal | NHL News Times of India

The Chicago Blackhawks announced they have made a seven-year, $46.13 million contract extension to forward Frank Nazar. Starting from the 2026-27 season, this deal marks a significant investment in the young centre. Following just 56 career NHL games, Nazar becomes a cornerstone in the team’s reformation alongside star forward Connor Bedard.

Nazar contributed to the team’s success with 12 goals and 26 points in 53 games last season, along with 11 goals and 24 points within 21 games with the AHL’s Rockford IceHogs. His speedy performance and excellent strategizing have been praised by General Manager Kyle Davidson, who called him an “integral piece of our team.”

Selected as the 13th pick in the 2022 draft, Nazar has shown steady growth during his first full NHL season. The Blackhawks’ new contract for Nazar symbolizes their trust in him continuing to develop as a top-line contributor.

Under this agreement, Nazar will become the highest-paid player for the Blackhawks from 2026-27. However, his teammate Connor Bedard is expected to negotiate an even higher contract as his restricted free agency commences next July.

On the current roster, veteran forwards Andre Burakovsky and Tyler Bertuzzi have the largest active cap hits at $5.5 million with Shea Weber’s on long-term injured reserve at $7.86 million.

Nazar, a Detroit native, only made his NHL debut in 2024 after playing for the University of Michigan. With the recent extension and his inclusion in the USA Hockey’s 44-player Olympic camp, Nazar’s impact on the team is definite.

From the Blackhawks point of view, the extension reflects the team’s belief in Nazar’s potential to usher in a fresh era of success alongside Bedard.