Blackhawks assign Nick Lardis to AHL affiliate Rockford IceHogs

The Chicago Blackhawks made a roster move on January 26, 2026, assigning promising forward Nick Lardis to their American Hockey League affiliate, the Rockford IceHogs. The 20-year-old prospect, who made his NHL debut on December 13, had notched five goals and two assists over 21 games with the big club. This decision comes as veteran forward Teuvo Teravainen nears a return from an upper-body injury sustained on January 12, paving the way for Lardis’ departure ahead of Tuesday’s game at Minnesota.

Lardis impressed early in his NHL tenure, showing flashes of the scoring touch that defined his junior career. Head coach Jeff Blashill praised the young winger’s growth before the assignment was announced, highlighting his adaptation to the pro level. While the Blackhawks continue their rebuild around stars like Connor Bedard, moves like this underscore the organization’s commitment to developing talent through structured playing time.

Lardis’ journey from juniors to pro hockey

Nick Lardis, born July 8, 2005, in Oakville, Ontario, entered the NHL radar with a dominant Ontario Hockey League season. Playing for the Brantford Bulldogs in 2024-25, he exploded for 71 goals and 46 assists in 65 games, marking one of the most prolific scoring outputs in recent OHL history. His 117 points ranked among the league’s elite, showcasing a lethal shot and playmaking ability that caught scouts’ attention.

Selected by the Blackhawks in the third round, 67th overall, of the 2023 NHL Draft, Lardis signed his entry-level contract soon after. He transitioned seamlessly to the pro ranks, joining Rockford for the 2025-26 AHL season. There, he led all rookies with 26 points (13 goals, 13 assists) in 24 games before his NHL call-up, earning recognition as a top prospect.

The recall on December 13 coincided with injuries, including to Bedard, providing Lardis an unexpected opportunity. His AHL performance, coupled with All-Star nods alongside teammate Kevin Korchinski for the February event in Rockford, affirmed his status. This assignment back allows him to participate in the AHL All-Star Classic during the NHL’s Olympic break.

Lardis’ physical profile—5-foot-11, 165 pounds—raises questions about durability at higher levels, but his speed and scoring instincts compensate. For more on his development, check his detailed stats on NHL.com.

Prospect watchers view him as a potential middle-six forward, with his power-play contributions hinting at special teams value. The Blackhawks’ patient approach with young players like Lardis reflects lessons from past rebuilds.

Breaking down Lardis’ NHL performance

In 21 games with Chicago, Lardis posted respectable rookie numbers: five goals, two assists, seven points, a minus-8 rating, and 32 shots on goal. His 12:39 average time on ice included power-play duty, where he tallied two goals and one assist. Highlights included goals against Nashville, Ottawa, and Long Island.

Recent outings showed consistency amid a tough schedule:

• January 23 at Carolina: 1 goal, 2 shots, 11:30 TOI (win).
• January 24 vs. Tampa Bay: 1 assist, 1 shot, 12:10 TOI (loss in SO).
• January 26 vs. Florida: 1 shot, 14:10 TOI (loss).

He thrived more on the road (three goals in seven games) than at home, adapting to physical defenses. However, a minus rating reflected Chicago’s overall struggles, with 13 losses in his games played.

Blashill noted Lardis’ growing confidence: “He came in and early on probably was trying to find his way a little bit. I thought he got more confident. So I think he’s done a good job of making a first impression to the coaching staff.” This feedback validates the stint as developmental.

View full game logs on his ESPN profile.

Team context and Teravainen’s return

The move clears space for Teravainen, a key veteran sidelined since January 12. His return bolsters Chicago’s forward depth, especially with ongoing injuries. Blashill’s staff, in place since May 2025, emphasizes blending youth and experience.

Chicago’s season has been transitional, with prospects like Lardis getting reps amid a bottom-five standing. Sending him down prioritizes AHL minutes over limited NHL role.

Rockford benefits immensely, regaining their leading scorer for the stretch run. Lardis’ prior dominance there suggests immediate impact.

This transaction aligns with Blackhawks’ strategy: recall for evaluation, return for seasoning. Similar paths succeeded for players like Jason Dickinson.

Analysts see it as low-risk, high-reward, preserving Lardis’ development trajectory.

Looking ahead for Lardis and the Blackhawks

Now back with Rockford, Lardis eyes the AHL All-Star Game and playoffs. His participation could elevate his profile ahead of next season. At 20, he has time to bulk up and refine defensively.

For Chicago, this reinforces prospect pipeline strength. With Bedard and others, Lardis fits as a complementary scorer.

Expect multiple call-ups post-All-Star, depending on injuries and performance. His NHL taste will fuel motivation.

The Blackhawks’ front office views such shuttles as optimal for growth.

Lardis’ first NHL chapter ends positively, setting up bigger roles ahead.

In the broader rebuild, moves like this signal patience pays off. Fans can watch his progress closely, as he remains a cornerstone prospect poised for impact. What it means for the future: sustained development could yield another homegrown talent by 2027.