Blackhawks sign the riskiest NHL contract in years

This just in the Chicago Blackhawks have signed 21 year old forward Frank Nazar to a seven year contract worth $6.59 million per season.

Now, if you're like me then you're sitting here thinking, "Wait... what?"

Sure, Nazar is a talented young player but he has exactly 27 career NHL points. Now he's got a $40+ million contract to go with it.

Make it make sense...

Nazar was the Blackhawks' second 1st round selection (13th overall) in 2022 and he put up 26 points in 53 games for the team last season. He certainly has all the makings of a top-six player in years to come, but he has little going for him than pedigree at this moment. Oh... and 40 million sheets.

In all seriousness, this deal could be an absolute steal for the Blackhawks. If Nazar continues to develop into a top line player then GM Kyle Davidson has made a smart gamble. Of course, if Nazar's development stumbles then his contract could be an enormous anchor for this team for years to come. An anchor that keeps them chained to the bottom of the NHL's standings.

If nothing else, you have to respect the risk that Davidson is making on this deal. He's proving that the Blackhawks aren't content to just do business the way it's always been done. You've got to admire Davidson's creativity. Let's just see if it pans out for him.