In the heart of Chicago, young forward Frank Nazar is gearing up for his first full NHL season with the Blackhawks. While he shies away from setting specific goals, he expresses lofty ambitions in a light-hearted manner. “I hope I score a thousand points,” he quipped, showing his desire to improve upon last year’s numbers. The focus for Nazar, who recently signed a seven-year contract worth $46.2 million, is steadily on personal growth and performance.
The Chicago Blackhawks have placed a significant bet on Nazar, hoping that the talented player who showcased his skills in the latter part of last season and excelled internationally with Team USA can maintain that momentum. Nazar’s impressive preseason performance, including a hat trick against the Minnesota Wild, signals a promising start as he embarks on this exciting venture.
Despite the high expectations that come with his hefty contract, Nazar maintains that his mentality remains unchanged. He views this season as a “prove-it year,” committed to demonstrating his worth on the ice each day. “I want to showcase to myself the player I can be and what I can do,” he stated, emphasizing a continuous improvement mindset.
As he prepares for a demanding 82-game schedule, Nazar believes that his experience at the World Championships has equipped him with the resilience needed for a long season. He draws confidence from his prior performance, letting it guide his approach rather than weigh him down. Moreover, he’s flexible regarding his position, expressing comfort in playing center or wing, but ultimately sees himself as a center where he can make the biggest impact.
Nazar’s strong skating and aggressive play, especially noted on the penalty kill, are qualities that coach Jeff Blashill believes will harness his strengths. While he thrives in aggressive situations, the team’s approach in preseason games has been a mixed bag. The Blackhawks’ power play struggled during their recent loss to the Detroit Red Wings but showed flashes of offensive capability, highlighting a work-in-progress mentality that Blashill remains optimistic about.
The preseason has provided opportunities for players to establish their roles, with Colton Dach particularly impressing in his quest for a roster spot. Dach’s blend of skill and physicality earned him a goal against the Red Wings, further solidifying his position as a key player to watch.
Conversely, other players like Ethan Del Mastro are facing challenges, as inconsistent performances put them in a tough spot for team selection heading into the regular season. With final roster decisions looming, the dynamics of the Blackhawks’ lineup could spell dramatic changes for some players.
As the excitement builds toward the upcoming season opener against the Florida Panthers, Nazar and his teammates remain focused on honing their skills and adapting to the rigors of professional play. The palpable energy around this young team, bolstered by the prospect of new beginnings, signals a hopeful trajectory for the Blackhawks as they aim to reclaim their place among the NHL elite.