Avalanche on high alert after divisional rival locks up rising star to massive contract
Photo credit: Michael Reaves / Chicago Sun Times
The Colorado Avalanche could be facing a tougher road in the Central Division after their rival Chicago Blackhawks locked up promising young forward Frank Nazar to a massive long-term contract, solidifying his as a cornerstone of their future.
Nazar was selected in the first round (13th overall) of the 2022 NHL Draft.
Chicago's rising Frank Nazar is being rewarded with a major pay raise.
Tyler Kuehl from the Daily Faceoff writes that on Thursday, the Blackhawks announced they've signed Nazar to a seven-year contract extension.
The deal, which begins in the 2026-27 season, carries an average annual value of $6.59 million and runs through the 2032-33 campaign.
Here's what Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson had to say following the team's announcement.
«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.» -Davidson
Nazar is fresh off an outstanding first full season at the NHL level.
"Even though he was on a team that finished dead last in the Central Division for the third year in a row, Nazar proved to be an exceptional offensive weapon. After posting just one assist in his first 10 games with the Hawks in 2024-25, he started to find his groove.
The 21-year-old ended up scoring 12 goals and 14 assists for 26 points in 53 games, scoring a pair of game-winning goals as well. He registered a plus/minus of -11 while averaging just under 16 minutes of ice time per game." -Kuehl
The 21-year-old ended up scoring 12 goals and 14 assists for 26 points in 53 games, scoring a pair of game-winning goals as well. He registered a plus/minus of -11 while averaging just under 16 minutes of ice time per game." -Kuehl
Through 56 games with the Blackhawks, Nazar has tallied 13 goals and 27 points, carrying a career plus-minus of -15.
With a new contract secured and valuable experience under his belt, Nazar now looks to take another big step forward in his sophomore campaign.
| POLL | ||
AOUT 22 | 28 ANSWERS Avalanche on high alert after divisional rival locks up rising star to massive contract Do you think Blackhawks' young star Frank Nazar is worth his new contract? | ||
| yes | 12 | 42.9 % |
| no | 16 | 57.1 % |
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