Frank Nazar eyes Blackhawks return after month-long injury absence

Chicago Blackhawks forward Frank Nazar took a significant step toward rejoining the lineup by practicing with the team on Sunday. The young center, sidelined since mid-December after a puck struck his face, expressed excitement about getting back on the ice. With the Blackhawks struggling through a three-game skid, his potential return could provide a much-needed boost.

Nazar’s coach Jeff Blashill indicated he likely won’t play Monday against Winnipeg but could be available as soon as Thursday at Carolina. This timeline aligns with the roughly four-week recovery expected after the injury on December 20 against Ottawa. Fans have eagerly awaited updates on the 2022 first-round pick, who signed a lucrative extension last summer.

Recapping Nazar’s injury and initial setback

The incident occurred early in a 6-4 loss to the Ottawa Senators when a deflected puck hit Nazar squarely in the face. He skated off under his own power but did not return, prompting immediate concern. Blackhawks coach Jeff Blashill confirmed post-game that Nazar would miss about four weeks.

Chicago placed him on injured reserve retroactive to December 20, opening a roster spot activated for veteran Nick Foligno. This compounded existing issues, with star Connor Bedard also sidelined by a shoulder injury until early January. The team leaned on prospects like Ryan Greene to fill the top center role temporarily.

Nazar’s absence tested the Blackhawks’ depth during a tough stretch, contributing to their slide. For detailed coverage of the immediate aftermath, check our post on Frank Nazar injures face; Blackhawks face depth test as Nazar out four weeks. The injury highlighted vulnerabilities in protecting young talent amid rebuild efforts.

Recovery updates were sparse initially, but recent developments signal progress. As The Athletic reported, Nazar had stepped up as the No. 1 center due to Bedard’s absence, making his loss even more acute.

Nazar’s strong season before the injury

Prior to getting hurt, Nazar posted impressive numbers in his second full NHL campaign. He tallied six goals and 15 assists over 33 games, ranking fourth in team scoring with 21 points. His play earned him a promotion and showcased his potential as a top-line contributor.

The Detroit native, drafted 13th overall in 2022, agreed to a seven-year, $46.2 million extension in August. This deal, with a $6.59 million cap hit starting next season, underscores Chicago’s commitment to its core youth. Nazar turned 22 just before his practice return, adding to the optimism.

His offensive flair and two-way game made him a standout amid the rebuild. Quotes from Nazar post-practice captured his mindset: “It feels great to be back with the guys and skating and had a lot of fun out there today.” He added, “Just really itching to get back and give what I can to help the team win.”

For more on how his placement on IR affected lineup decisions, see our analysis in Chicago Blackhawks place Frank Nazar on injured reserve: Impact and timeline for rookie’s recovery.

Team context and other injury concerns

The Blackhawks entered Monday’s home game against Winnipeg on a three-game losing streak. Their schedule intensifies with a Thursday visit to Carolina followed by Tampa Bay on Friday. Nazar’s return would slot him back into a lineup needing spark.

Teuvo Teravainen, another key forward, remains out with an upper-body injury from a loss to Edmonton. The 31-year-old won’t play against the Jets, per Blashill. “As far as I know, he won’t play tomorrow. Unless something drastically changed,” the coach noted on Nazar, prioritizing another full practice.

Here’s the Blackhawks’ immediate upcoming slate:

These games represent critical tests. ESPN coverage detailed the team’s struggles without Nazar, including a 7-3 loss to Pittsburgh.

Fan sentiment on X reflects hope, with posts noting Nazar’s full practice Sunday and doubts for Monday but possibilities beyond.

What Nazar’s return means for Chicago

Reintegrating Nazar won’t be seamless after a facial injury layoff. Blashill emphasized caution: “That would allow him another full practice at least and then see where we go from there.” His speed and vision could revitalize the top six.

The extension signals long-term plans around Nazar, Bedard, and others. At 22, he’s poised for a breakout, especially with more ice time. His pre-injury stats suggest 30-40 points pace over a full season.

Chicago’s rebuild hinges on such talents emerging. A healthy Nazar aids chemistry and morale during this skid. Posts on X from insiders like Tab Bamford confirm the practice buzz and tempered expectations.

The forward-looking view: Nazar’s timely return could stem losses and build momentum into late January.

Nazar’s practice marks a bright spot for a Blackhawks team desperate for positives. If he suits up Thursday, it caps a resilient recovery from a scary injury. Chicago fans should watch closely—his impact could shift the narrative in a rebuilding year.

With depth thin and schedule demanding, Nazar’s contributions loom large. Expect him to ease in, but his hunger to “help the team win” bodes well for the stretch run. Stay tuned for lineups and updates.