Frank Nazar’s NHL Debut
Frank Nazar, originally from Hockeytown, experienced a significant milestone in January 2025 when he made his NHL debut at Little Caesars Arena against the Detroit Red Wings as part of the Chicago Blackhawks, despite enduring a 5-3 defeat. Nazar expressed his excitement about playing at a venue where he has many fond memories, stating:
“Every time I play there, it’s a blast. It’s great to have close to 100 family members supporting me every time.”
Path to Professional Hockey
His journey to professional hockey has been a local affair, as Nazar has spent most of his career in Michigan. He honed his skills in the Detroit area, starting with the reputable Honeybaked youth program, then moving on to Plymouth to train with the USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program, and finally competing in NCAA hockey at the University of Michigan for two seasons.
Career Turning Points
A significant turning point in Nazar’s career came when he transitioned from playing wing to center during his time with the National Team Development Program (NTDP). Having always aspired to play at center, his opportunity finally arrived when injuries struck the team, and he convinced his coach to let him step into the center role. Nazar recalled:
“I had asked my coaches my whole life, ‘Put me at center,’ ”
reflecting on his early struggles.
“Once I got my shot, I had an amazing game and never looked back.”
His persistence paid off; by the time the 2020-21 season concluded, he emerged as the leading scorer on the U-17 team, which included players like Logan Cooley and Cutter Gauthier. Nazar continued to shine and was selected by the Blackhawks as the 13th overall pick in the 2022 NHL Draft.
Challenges and Achievements
Despite facing injuries that sidelined him for the initial four months of his first NCAA season, Nazar’s time at Michigan culminated with the team reaching the Frozen Four both years he played. Additionally, he was part of the USA team that captured a gold medal in the 2024 World Junior Championships, further solidifying his credentials.
Professional Growth
In April 2024, Nazar celebrated his professional debut by scoring against the Carolina Hurricanes. He spent the 2024-25 season in the AHL with the Rockford IceHogs, where he thrived under the guidance of coach Anders Sorensen. Nazar highlighted the importance of his AHL experience, stating:
“He let me play freely and try different plays without restraints.”
After Sorensen was promoted to coach the Blackhawks, Nazar soon followed and joined the NHL roster. His initial performances were modest; he registered only one point in his first ten games. Nevertheless, he quickly adjusted and finished strong, accumulating 25 points over his final 43 games, including an impressive streak towards the season’s end.
Looking Ahead
With the confidence gained from his rookie season, Nazar accepted an invitation to represent the USA at the World Championship where he excelled, ranking among the team’s top players and helping the U.S. secure gold for the first time since 1933.
Looking back on his inaugural year in the NHL, Nazar remains optimistic about the future as he anticipates the next season under new coach Jeff Blashill. He asserted:
“Every player will go into the summer with a point to prove.”
This reveals a positive outlook amid the team’s struggles last year, which included noteworthy moments such as participating in the Winter Classic and witnessing historic achievements from notable players. As for the Chicago Blackhawks, the upcoming season promises to be a fresh start, with Nazar poised to play a crucial role in their resurgence.
