Nazar, Burakovsky Returns Could Spark Blackhawks’ January Push

The Chicago Blackhawks will get a much-needed boost Thursday night in Carolina with Frank Nazar and André Burakovsky returning to the lineup, at a critical moment in the schedule.

Nazar, who just turned 22 earlier this month, has missed nearly four weeks after taking a puck to the jaw on Dec. 20. Before the injury, the young forward was quietly building momentum, producing six goals and 21 points in 33 gameswhile flashing the pace and creativity that make him such a valuable piece of Chicago’s future. At practice Wednesday, Nazar skated between Tyler Bertuzzi and Ryan Donato and worked with the second power-play unit — a clear sign the coaching staff wants him involved offensively right away.

Burakovsky’s return is just as important. The veteran winger slid back alongside Connor Bedard and Ryan Greene and reclaimed his spot on the top power-play unit. Chicago has struggled to generate consistent offense in January, and Burakovsky’s puck protection and finishing ability should help open space for Bedard at five-on-five and on the man advantage.

While Teuvo Teräväinen remains out and won’t travel to Carolina, head coach Jeff Blashill indicated the winger is progressing. Teräväinen has been skating on his own and is expected back before the Olympic break, though the team is taking a cautious, day-to-day approach.

Chicago enters the final stretch before the break with eight games remaining, and every point matters. On the surface, their January record (6-4-0) looks solid, but a deeper look reveals the issue: offense.

Blackhawks mired in scoring slump

In their last six games, the Blackhawks have scored just nine total goals, and their power play has converted only twice in 17 opportunities. That lack of finish has overshadowed what has actually been a respectable defensive stretch. In January, Chicago has allowed just 2.7 goals per game, and their penalty kill has been excellent, operating at over 91%.

The formula is clear: the Blackhawks aren’t bleeding goals — they simply aren’t scoring enough of them.

That’s why Nazar’s speed and Burakovsky’s offensive instincts matter so much. With Nazar and Bedard both healthy, Chicago should be able to generate cleaner zone entries, more sustained pressure, and higher-quality chances — especially against Eastern Conference opponents, where they’ve struggled this season (6-11-3).

Six of the final eight games before the break come against teams from the East. If the Blackhawks can find even a modest offensive bump, their strong defensive habits and elite penalty killing give them a real chance to stay competitive down the stretch.

Now, the challenge is simple: turn effort into goals.

And with Nazar and Burakovsky back in the mix, Chicago finally has the tools to do it.