The Chicago Blackhawks have locked up forward Frank for a very friendly price. They signed the young forward to a seven-year, $46.1 million contract extension. His new $6.59 million salary cap hit will take effect starting in the 2026-27 season, as he enters the final year of his entry-level contract. He is under contract through the 2032-33 season.
“Frank elevated his game last season and has proven himself to be one of the top young talents in the league,” said Blackhawks General Manager Kyle Davidson in a team release. “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.”
Nazar tore up the American Hockey League with 11 goals and 24 points in his 21 games for the Rockford IceHogs last season. The Blackhawks recalled him in mid-December, and he became a staple in the lineup. He hit his stride after the trade deadline in March and finished strongly with four goals and nine points in the final eight games of the regular season. He carried that success into the IIHF World Championship, where he scored six goals and 12 points, leading Team USA to a gold medal.
If Nazar keeps progressing, his $6.59 million cap hit will be an absolute bargain. He is the first of three young players eligible for a contract extension this summer to sign, with the other two being Connor Bedard and Spencer Knight. The Blackhawks still need to reach an agreement with restricted free-agent defenseman Wyatt Kaiser.