Blackhawks Player Grades: Frank Nazar

After a small sample size at the end of the 2023-24 season, Nazar began the 2024-25 season in Rockford. After a spectacular start to the season, Nazar was called up and never left the NHL. Over 53 games, Nazar posted 26 points (12 goals, 14 assists) and was consistently one of the most consistent players in terms of creation, even if the results weren't quite there at times. 

Nazar's season was about constant growth, and the end of the season may have been the glimpse that Blackhawks fans needed. Nine of Nazar's 26 points (five goals, four assists) came in the month of April alone, and a few multi-point efforts in the final games of the season ignited the Nazar hype. 

The Detroit native wasn't done. Participating in the IIHF Worlds Championship, Nazar was spectacular for the Gold-winning USA squad. He was tied with Utah's Logan Cooley for the team scoring lead (12 points) but potted six goals and added six assists. Nazar also played up and down the lineup and finished sixth in scoring for the entire tournament. Now, expectations are high for Nazar as he enters his first full season, and second season of consistent NHL action, in 2025-26. 

Player Grades

Steve Kwiatkowski's Grade: A

Nazar impressed me. His trajectory since coming back onto the Blackhawks roster in December only went up. Every roadblock he encountered, he found a way to work with it. He had a problem with finishing goals, and then he started scoring. Most impressive about him is his personality. He's cocky, but not in an abrasive manner. He's confident, but he's not ignorant.

 If Nazar turns into a true 2C, Kyle Davidson really hit something special here.

Tony Marchese's Grade: A

No one has become a fan favorite in Chicago faster than Frank Nazar has over the second half of the season. For a team in dire need of offensive firepower, Nazar delivered, and only projects to get better. 

Solid A.

Ron Luce's Grade: A

Talk about a guy who really grew as the season pushed along. Ignore the scoring numbers, because Frank Nazar was making an impact in every game, even if he wasn't showing on the scoresheet. Flipping between center and wing, the potential future captain of the Blackhawks made his impact felt with his speed. He's already looking like a steal as the 13th overall pick in 2022.

 There is a good chance that Nazar EXPLODES next season. 

What's On Tap Next?

With a big season potentially on the horizon for Nazar, eyes will be on him and Connor Bedard to be pillars on the offensive side. That said, quality performances at the end of the NHL season and during the IIHF tournament suggest Nazar's coming-out party could be a grand one. 

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