Blackhawks News
BREAKING: Blackhawks Recall Top Prospect Nick Lardis From AHL
With superstar forward Connor Bedard already ruled out for Saturday’s Original Six matchup against the Detroit Red Wings, the Chicago Blackhawks recalled 2023 third-round pick (No. 67 overall) Nick Lardis from the Rockford IceHogs of the AHL for some offensive support.
Lardis, a 20-year-old winger, has been stellar through his opening 24 professional games with the IceHogs this season. He leads all AHL rookies with 26 points, is second with 13 goals, and shares fifth with 13 assists. Among all players in the league, Lardis’ 13 goals are tied for fourth-most, while he’s also tied for sixth in points.
The transition from junior hockey to the professional level has been seamless for Lardis, who became just the 13th player in Ontario Hockey League history to record 70 goals in a single season last year for the Brantford Bulldogs. The 5-foot-11 forward racked up 71 goals in 65 games while adding 46 assists for a jaw-dropping 117 points. Lardis also became just the eighth CHL skater since 2000 to reach the 70-goal plateau. Not too shabby for a former third-round selection!
Lardis’ dominant offensive game has followed him into the AHL, but the question remains if he’ll be able to produce at the same rate against the top players in the world. Now, he’ll finally be able to provide an answer after getting his first NHL call-up on Saturday morning.
Even without Bedard, the Blackhawks still had 12 forwards on their active roster, with Dominic Toninato being recalled on Tuesday. However, head coach Jeff Blashill could use some more offensive firepower without the team’s leading goal scorer and point getter, and Lardis can hopefully help fill that void. Head coach Jeff Blashill confirmed on Saturday morning that Lardis will make his NHL debut against Detroit.
There has not been an additional update on Bedard at this point, and it’s still unknown if he’s dealing with a short-term or long-term injury. The Blackhawks are expected to provide more information at practice on Monday.
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