It’s been a great start to the season for the Rockford IceHogs, who have quickly emerged as one of the most dynamic young teams in the AHL. Rookie forward Nick Lardis is at the center of it all.
The 19-year-old winger was named the AHL Player of the Week after a three-game stretch that saw him rack up 2 goals and 5 assists, finishing with a +5 rating.
Lardis now sits atop the early rookie scoring charts with 8 points (2 G, 6 A) through five games. His speed, energy, and confidence with the puck have given Rockford a major spark offensively.
Moore Making His Mark
While Lardis has grabbed headlines, fellow rookie Oliver Moore has been just as impactful. The 2023 first-round pick’s skating and two-way game have stood out from day one.
Moore’s quick transitions and vision have driven Rockford’s possession game and created consistent offense from the middle of the ice.
Together, Moore and Lardis have become one of the AHL’s most exciting young duos — and they’re doing it under the steady hand of new head coach Jared Nightingale, who has guided the IceHogs to a 4-1-0-0 record (8 points) and second place in the Central Division.
Berezhnoy Steady in Net
In goal, Russian rookie Stanislav Berezhnoy has wasted no time making an impression. The 21-year-old netminder has started the year 2-0-0, with a 1.98 goals-against average and a .944 save percentage.
His calm, composed play has stabilized the IceHogs’ back end and given the team confidence in tight games.
Injury Notes
Team physician Dr. Geoff Van Thiel provided these updates:
- Paul Ludwinski — Out for the season (left knee)
- Dillon Boucher — Out one week (right knee)
- Marcel Marcel — Cleared to return after shoulder surgery
Despite early injuries, Rockford’s depth and structure have kept them rolling.
Looking Ahead
Rockford returns home to host the Colorado Eagles for a two-game set on October 25–26 at the BMO Center. With both teams sitting near the top of their divisions, it’s an early-season measuring stick for the IceHogs.
Expect Berezhnoy to get another start, while Lardis and Moore look to extend their scoring streaks and continue driving Rockford’s offense.
Final Take
The IceHogs are showing what a strong development system can do — playing fast, confident, and fearless hockey.
With Lardis finding the net, Moore controlling the pace, and Berezhnoy anchoring the crease, Rockford’s youth movement is thriving.
The future looks bright — and the IceHogs are already proving they belong among the AHL’s best.
Wow !! Great to here some news from the rock. Around my parts don’t here much about Chicago and nothing of the A , unless you do some digging . Thank you Coach .
Lardis is such a gift from the hockey gods ,I don’t remember the HAWKS drafting him ( my bad) I do remember the HAWKS drafting Moore and being surprised he dropped to us .Good to see them off to good starts .
Regarding Berezhnoy great start how will that affect Commesso standing ? .
Heard a rumor that the Leafs were sniffing around Soderblom for N Robinson ? Not so sure I like that one .
Keep up the great work Coach !!
Welcome, my friend — glad you enjoyed the report! Every week, we’ll be sharing updates about Rockford and the Blackhawks’ top prospects.
Nick Lardis has been an impressive player over the last two seasons, first in Brantford and now with Rockford. He’s showing great speed, energy, and offensive instincts — he might turn out to be a real steal from the Blackhawks’ draft class.
As for Commesso, you’re right — he started the season strong. Last game was a tough one with six goals against, but that was a wild matchup with 11 total goals. Overall, both goalies have been excellent, and Rockford’s 4-1-0 record speaks for itself.
Thanks for your comment and your great input today!