NEWARK, NJ — The Chicago Blackhawks have recalled top prospect Frank Nazar from the minor leagues.
Chicago also placed defenseman Alec Martinez on injured reserve, retroactive to December 7. Martinez, who signed a one-year, $4 million contract with the Blackhawks in free agency, is dealing with a neck injury.
Nazar, 20, had 11 goals and 13 assists in 21 games with Rockford in the American Hockey League.
Nazar was selected by Chicago with the No. 13 pick in the 2022 draft. After playing for the University of Michigan, the forward agreed to a three-year contract with the Blackhawks in April.
Nazar played in three games with Chicago late last season, scoring on his first shot on goal in his NHL debut on April 14 against Carolina.
The Blackhawks were active in free agency, so they asked Nazar to start the season with Rockford to continue his development. But he made a strong case to join the NHL team thanks to his quick start in the minors.
“Frank played really well,” general manager Kyle Davidson said when asked about Nazar’s promotion. “He was a real bright spot for us and his performance was really exciting.”
Chicago (9-18-2) has lost six of seven heading into a game against New Jersey. This begins a three-game homestand against the New York Islanders.
