Blackhawks 2025-26 Player Grades: Nick Lardis

After Lardis’ brilliant season in the OHL, he signed with the Blackhawks with full intention of beginning the season in Rockford. Lardis immediately impressed in the AHL, posting insane totals early on. In his first 24 pro games, Lardis posted 26 points (13 goals, 13 assists). He was so good and earned a promotion early than expected when Connor Bedard and Frank Nazar went down with injuries in mid-December.

Lardis initially struggled in the NHL, but wasn’t completely kept off the scoresheet. In his first 21-game stint, Lardis recorded five goals and added two assists. He was sent back to Rockford when Bedard and Nazar returned, but returned to the NHL in March. He doubled his goal total, and added three more assists to finish the season with 15 points (10 goals) in 41 games. His first year pro was a 20-goal pace.

To say Lardis’ season was impressive would be an understatement. He is still growing into his game. That said, he put up a 20-goal pace as a rookie to pro hockey as a whole. Impressive stuff from Nick Lardis.

Now, the offense is there. Lardis’ defense though is something that needs to continue growing. He wasn’t perfect, but the continued growth delivers excitement for his future.

Player Grades

Blackhawks Cowboy’s Grade: B

When Nick Lardis signed to the Rockford IceHogs out of Brantford of the OHL, there were many question marks in his game. Yes, Lardis had a great year where he broke the seventy-goal mark, but how much of his game could translate? A decent amount. Lardis was big in the December-January stretch of games without Connor Bedard and Frank Nazar, even recording a game winning shootout goal vs the powerhouse Dallas Stars. While there were inconstancy issues this season, the future looks bright for Lardis, and his rookie year was a big stepping stone.

Tony Marchese’s Grade: B

Nick Lardis definitely had his struggles in the early going, although it can be argued that he wasn’t given the best chance at success, being stuck in the bottom six. Boy, did he prove myself and some others wrong when he had the chance to play in the top six as the year progressed. While I’m not sure he will stick in a top-six role long-term, playing with more talented players gave Lardis a bit more of a chance to shine and show off arguably his best asset. His shot.

Ron Luce’s Grade: B

Struggles during a first call-up led to some REALLY good hockey from Nick Lardis late in the season. Lardis suited up for 41 games, but scored 10 goals. Its impressive for a rookie to step in and play at a 20-goal pace. Lardis is a goal scorer, and his talents will be important for the Blackhawks in the future. The early struggles were largely fixed after a return to Rockford before closing out the season in the NHL. It was a fun season from Lardis, who continues to look like one of Kyle Davidson’s draft steals.

What’s On Tap Next?

A full NHL season should offer another step forward for Lardis in 2026-27. His shot is spectacular, and he should get consistent looks on the power play. Where he fits in the lineup will remain to be seen, but there is certainly a world where he gets some real looks in the top six, or top nine at bare minimum.

Tell us if you agree with our grades! What would you give Nick Lardis? Let us know at @FourFeathersPod on X and Instagram!

Next Up: Louis Crevier