The Chicago Blackhawks have signed forward Frank Nazar to a seven-year contract extension, the team announced Thursday. The deal carries a $6.59 million salary cap hit and will begin with the 2026-27 NHL season, running through 2032-33.
“Frank elevated his game last season and has proven himself to be one of the top young talents in the league,” said Blackhawks General Manager Kyle Davidson. “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.”
Nazar, age 21, recorded 26 points (12 goals, 14 assists) in 53 games during the 2024-25 campaign with Chicago. He led all Blackhawks rookies in goals, assists, and points while ranking seventh among all skaters on the team in goals scored. Nazar was also notable as the only NHL rookie last season to score on a penalty shot and was one of three rookies league-wide to net a shorthanded goal.
In addition to his time with Chicago, Nazar played 21 games for the Rockford IceHogs in the American Hockey League (AHL), tallying 24 points (11 goals, 13 assists) and earning AHL All-Star honors.
Over his career so far with Chicago, Nazar has totaled 27 points (13 goals, 14 assists) across 56 NHL games. He made his debut on April 14, 2024, becoming the fourth-youngest player in franchise history to score in his first career game.
Before joining professional hockey, Nazar played two seasons at the University of Michigan where he posted 48 points (19 goals, 29 assists) over 54 games. During that period he helped Michigan win a Big Ten Championship in 2023 and reach consecutive NCAA Frozen Four tournaments in both 2023 and 2024.
Internationally, Nazar contributed significantly to Team USA’s gold medal run at the 2025 IIHF World Championship, scoring six goals and adding six assists over ten games. This marked Team USA's first gold medal at that tournament in nearly a century. He also played a key role at the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship, helping secure another gold medal while ranking third among all players for assists.
Nazar was selected by Chicago as their first-round pick (13th overall) in the 2022 NHL Draft.