Frank Nazar signed a seven-year extension with the Chicago Blackhawks worth 46.13 million, a move that signals a core commitment to the franchise’s rebuild alongside Connor Bedard and Artyom Levshunov. Nazar, who posted 26 points in 53 games last season at ages 20-21, brings elite speed and playmaking to a lineup that aims to climb back into contention as Bedard’s development accelerates. The contract carries a 6.59 million cap hit beginning in 2026-27, tying Nazar to Chicago for eight seasons of team control and signaling he’ll be a central piece through the Hawks’ next wave. Nazar’s U.S. world championship gold and Olympic orientation camp invite add to the expected ascent. For fantasy managers, Nazar is a high-upside dynasty asset whose value could surge if he lines with Bedard on the Hawks’ top unit and takes on meaningful power-play minutes as Levshunov develops beside him.

Bedard and Levshunov form a compelling young trio with Nazar, giving fantasy owners specfic lines to monitor as Chicago’s offense potentially takes a sizable step forward later in the decade. Nazar’s blend of speed, vision, and scoring ability creates a dynamic where he can rack up assists and goals in a volatile offensive environment, especially if Chicago begins to push for playoff contention. The extension also provides stability for Nazar’s timeline, reducing risk for dynasty rosters relying on his long-term production. Overall, Nazar’s deal crystallizes a confident Hawks rebuild plan and positions him as a cornerstone for fantasy rosters tracking Chicago’s progress.

Frank Nazar signed a seven-year extension with the Chicago Blackhawks worth 46.13 million, tying the dynamic forward to the club through 2033 with a 6.59 million cap hit starting in 2026-27. Nazar produced 26 points in 53 games as a 20-21-year-old and helped the U.S. win the world championship. The deal signals Chicago’s commitment to a speedy rebuild around Nazar, Bedard and Levshunov, aiming to accelerate a fast, skilled offense.

Nazar’s elite speed and playmaking create chances for teammates and pressure for opponents every night, elevating his fantasy upside on a top-line and power-play role if ice time and line chemistry materialize. With Bedard driving the offense and Levshunov adding a young blueprint on the blue line, Nazar sits at the center of a potential high-pace scoring core that fantasy managers will have circled for years.

Chicago’s long-term plan hinges on Nazar, Bedard and Levshunov, signaling a rebuild built on speed and skill. Bedard’s presence could unlock Nazar’s ceiling, especially on the man advantage, while Levshunov’s development will influence studly blue-line potential. For fantasy players, Nazar looks like a breakout candidate if he lands top-six minutes and PP1 opportunities as the Hawks ascend back toward relevance.

In a recent game against the Utah Hockey Club, Chicago Blackhawks fans witnessed a glimpse into the team's future as several top draft picks made their NHL debuts. This marked a significant moment in the franchise's rebuilding process, which has seen first-round picks like Connor Bedard, Frank Nazar, Oliver Moore, Sam Rinzel, Kevin Korchinski, and Artyom Levshunov take the ice together. Though the Blackhawks lost 5-2, interim coach Anders Sorensen emphasized the importance of these players gaining experience against playoff contenders.

Each debutant brought unique skills to the rink. Connor Bedard, the centerpiece of the franchise, showed flashes of brilliance despite a dip in his sophomore season points. Frank Nazar led the team with five shots on goal, demonstrating his offensive potential. Oliver Moore's speed and puck control impressed, while Rinzel and Levshunov showcased promising defensive skills. The Blackhawks clearly have hope for their future as they work through this transitional phase.

Artyom Levshunov, the Chicago Blackhawks' promising defenseman, is quickly adapting to the intensity of the NHL. The second overall pick in this summer's draft, Levshunov is starting to showcase his potential as he prepares for his eighth game against the New Jersey Devils.

Despite not yet scoring his first NHL goal, his two assists and average of 1.29 shots per game have him ranking third among Blackhawks defensemen. His powerful shooting ability is noted, even as he hovers slightly below the league average in shot speed. Head coach Anders Sorensen emphasizes Levshunov's offensive instincts, indicating that his heavy shot can significantly impact opposing defenses. Teammate Frank Nazar agrees, noting Levshunov's dual threat as both a shooter and a playmaker.

Levshunov's confidence on the ice is building; he isn’t shy about directing teammates, demonstrating leadership qualities uncommon in rookies. He has shown improvement in his defensive positioning, particularly in managing gaps against skilled forwards, which is vital for effective defending. However, he still faces challenges in mastering the Hawks' complex defensive strategies, which require a more nuanced understanding of in-game positioning and puck management.