Frank Nazar is knocking on the door of becoming one of the Chicago Blackhawks’ most important players — and this year could be the one where he kicks it wide open.
The 21-year-old centerman made a strong impression in his first extended NHL action last season, posting 12 goals and 14 assists for 26 points in 53 games. That pace projects to roughly 19 goals and 40 points over a full 82-game season — a solid start for a young forward still finding his way at the pro level.
But Nazar’s value goes far beyond the scoresheet.
Nazar is a special teams weapon
Despite his age, Nazar already earned trust from the coaching staff in all situations. He played 15:52 per game last season and was a regular on both the power play and the penalty kill.
He even managed one goal and one assist while shorthanded, a rare feat for a rookie, showing both his offensive instincts and his ability to think the game at a high level.
Areas for Growth
Nazar’s faceoff percentage sat at 44.6% in 2024–25 — respectable for a first-year center, but there’s room to grow. Improving in the dot will be critical as he moves into a larger role.
His Corsi For percentage of 44.2% also indicates that Chicago spent more time defending than attacking when he was on the ice — another area that should improve with experience, better matchups, and a stronger supporting cast.
Nazar has elite speed… with room to add power
One of the most eye-catching aspects of Nazar’s game is his blazing speed. NHL EDGE tracking shows he is among the fastest skaters in the league, hitting over 20 mph regularly and recording 16 bursts above 22 mph last season — the most for top speed in the entire NHL.
Even Connor Bedard never hit that mark during the season.
However, his shot speed is an area to develop. Most of his shots came in the 70–80 mph range, with only a few reaching 80–90 mph, and none surpassing 90. Adding more power to his release could make him even more dangerous, especially on the rush.
Nazar is comparable to Marco Rossi
When you look at Nazar’s size, position, and early-career stats, there’s a strong resemblance to Marco Rossi of the Minnesota Wild. Rossi posted 21 goals and 40 points in his first NHL season (82 games), while Nazar had 26 points in 53 games.
Rossi’s trajectory is encouraging — he jumped from 40 to 60 points last year and improved his faceoff percentage from 44% to 46%. Nazar could follow a similar path, making a significant leap in his second full season.
Bigger role in 2025–26
With Chicago’s depth chart evolving, Nazar is expected to step in as the second-line center this season. That means more ice time, better linemates, and increased offensive responsibility.
Head coach Jeff Blashill will likely lean on him not just for secondary scoring, but also for matchups against tougher competition — a challenge Nazar’s speed, vision, and compete level can handle.
Confidence is Growing
His season-ending surge and clutch moments — like his overtime winner against Ottawa — have only boosted his confidence. Add in his standout performance at the 2025 IIHF World Championship, where he helped Team USA win its first senior-level gold in 92 years with 12 points in 10 games, and you have a player entering camp with momentum.
The Long-Term Question
While Nazar’s emergence behind Bedard gives Chicago an exciting 1–2 punch down the middle, both players are under 6 feet tall. The long-term question is whether a team can contend for a Stanley Cup with two smaller centers leading the way.
For now, the focus is on development — and Nazar is trending in the right direction.
What to Expect from Nazar in 2025-26
If Nazar stays healthy and continues to develop, it’s not unrealistic to see him push toward the 50–55 point range this season.
With his combination of speed, offensive creativity, and willingness to play in all situations, Nazar could become a central piece in the Blackhawks’ rebuild — and maybe even a fan favorite in the process.
Bottom Line:
Frank Nazar isn’t just a promising prospect anymore. He’s a key part of Chicago’s future, and the 2025–26 season could be the one where he makes the leap from up-and-coming to difference-maker.
Good write up here. Young Frank Nazar has quite the motor, it will be great to watch!
Thanks for your comment! ???? (35Tony0) Absolutely — Nazar’s motor is non-stop, and that’s exactly what makes him so fun to watch. If he keeps that pace and adds a bit more finishing touch, he’s going to be a real difference-maker for the Hawks. Can’t wait to see how his game grows this season!