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The Chicago Blackhawks have officially locked in one of their brightest young stars, signing Frank Nazar to a seven-year contract extension that carries a cap hit of $6.59 million per season. The deal, which begins in the 2026-27 season, secures Nazar’s future in Chicago and signals the organization’s intent to build its next era around a dynamic partnership between Nazar and franchise centerpiece Connor Bedard.
Blackhawks betting big on Frank Nazar’s rise
Frank Nazar, just 21 years old, has emerged as one of the league’s most promising young forwards. While his early NHL stint came with growing pains, his late-season surge left little doubt about his potential. After recording five goals and four assists in April, he went on to shine at the World Championships, leading Team USA with six goals and six assists in 10 games en route to the country’s first gold medal since 1933.
Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson praised the young forward’s rapid development, stating:
"Frank elevated his game last season and has proven himself to be one of the top young talents in the league. He drives play using his elite speed and playmaking abilities, creating problems for opponents and opportunities for teammates every night. Frank is an integral piece of our team, and we’re thrilled to have him with us for the next eight seasons."
From draft pick to franchise cornerstone
Drafted 13th overall in 2022, Nazar was acquired after Davidson traded Kirby Dach to the Montreal Canadiens to secure the pick. Following a standout sophomore season at the University of Michigan, where he averaged a point per game, Nazar made his Blackhawks debut at the end of the 2023-24 season, scoring one goal in three appearances.
Last season, he began with the AHL’s Rockford IceHogs but was recalled in December amid organizational changes. Though his start was slow, Frank Nazar found his rhythm, finishing with 12 goals and 14 assists in 53 NHL games. His trajectory has quickly shifted from promising prospect to essential building block.
Nazar himself has been outspoken about his love for Chicago and his desire to remain a Blackhawk for the long haul.
"I want to play in Chicago for the rest of my life. I think it’s a great city and a great team and a greater organization. So, if that’s an option and that’s something to set up, then I’m always willing to look into it and look at things. But I’ve been super grateful and happy with my time in Chicago so far, and I’d love to keep it going," Nazar told The Athletic in June.
Strategic move for both sides
By committing to Nazar early, the Blackhawks have positioned themselves to benefit from what could become a team-friendly deal as the NHL salary cap continues to climb. Comparisons have already been drawn to Nathan MacKinnon’s seven-year, $6.3 million deal, which turned into one of the league’s most valuable contracts as the Avalanche star developed into a perennial MVP contender.
For Frank Nazar, the extension provides financial security while allowing him to focus entirely on his first full NHL season without the looming distraction of contract negotiations.
Bedard’s contract looms next
Nazar’s deal also brings attention to the future of Connor Bedard, who is entering the final year of his entry-level contract. While extension talks are not yet urgent, fans are eager to see how Chicago manages its two young stars. Bedard, however, has emphasized his commitment to the franchise.
"We have a great relationship and everyone knows I want to be a Hawk as long as I’m playing," Bedard told The Athletic. "And I know they appreciate me and want me with the team. Once you know that, there’s no stress or anything about that."
The dawn of a new era in Chicago
With Frank Nazar secured for the long term and Connor Bedard at the forefront of the rebuild, the Blackhawks are laying the foundation for a new era of success. Nazar’s speed, creativity, and recent surge in production suggest that he may soon become one of the league’s most electrifying forwards. For Chicago, his signing is more than just a contract extension — it’s a bold step toward the future.
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