Frank Nazar's recent seven-year contract extension with the Chicago Blackhawks has sparked considerable discussion and debate throughout the NHL community. The deal, carrying an average annual value (AAV) of $6.59 million, will begin in the 2026-27 season and run through 2032-33. While many fans celebrated the Blackhawks' commitment to a promising young talent, others questioned the size and length of the contract given Nazar's relatively limited NHL experience.
To put the contract into perspective, it's important to consider several factors. Nazar, the 13th overall pick in the 2022 NHL Draft, is viewed as a key piece of the Blackhawks' future. In his first full NHL season (2024-25), the 21-year-old forward recorded 26 points (12 goals, 14 assists) in 53 games, leading all Blackhawks rookies in goals, assists, and points. He also showcased his offensive abilities with 24 points in 21 AHL games with the Rockford IceHogs. Furthermore, Nazar's international performance, including a gold medal at the 2025 IIHF World Championship, solidified his reputation as a rising star.
Blackhawks General Manager Kyle Davidson expressed his excitement about securing Nazar for the long term, praising his "elite speed and playmaking abilities". The organization clearly believes that Nazar has the potential to develop into a top-line player and become a cornerstone of the team alongside Connor Bedard. This long-term commitment signals the Blackhawks' confidence in Nazar's continued growth and their vision for him as a central figure in their rebuilding process.
However, the contract's AAV has raised eyebrows, especially when compared to deals signed by players with more established track records. Some observers have pointed out that Nazar's contract surpasses those of players like Kirill Kaprizov at the time he signed his. Former NHL executive Pierre McGuire drew a parallel to Rick DiPietro's infamous 15-year contract with the New York Islanders, expressing concern about the potential risks associated with such a long-term commitment to a young player.
It's crucial to understand the structure of Nazar's contract. While the AAV is $6.59 million, the actual salary he will receive varies each year. In the 2026-27 season, he will be paid $9.1 million, followed by $8,659,937 in 2027-28. The salary then decreases to $6,599,999 in 2028-29 and remains at $5.46 million for the final four years of the contract. This structure is likely designed to provide the Blackhawks with some cap flexibility in later years while rewarding Nazar upfront for his potential.
Ultimately, the success of Nazar's contract will depend on his continued development and performance. If he blossoms into a top-line player, the Blackhawks' investment will prove to be a wise one. However, if his growth stagnates, the contract could become an albatross on the team's salary cap. Only time will tell whether Kyle Davidson's gamble will pay off, but the Blackhawks are clearly betting big on Frank Nazar's future.
Nazar himself remains unfazed by the pressure of his new contract. He stated that he will approach each season with the belief that he is the best player he can be and that his mindset will not change. He also expressed his desire to win more and his excitement about being a part of the Blackhawks organization and the Chicago community for many years to come.
