Chicago Blackhawks officially sign goal-scoring Nick Lardis

As the Chicago Blackhawks regular season is at an end, the team is instead looking to the future. They have just made a major OHL signing from the Brantford Bulldogs.

The Blackhawks have signed forward Nick Lardis to a 3-year, entry-level contract with an AAV of $896K cap hit.


Lardis was selected 67th overall during the 2023 NHL Entry Draft, from the Branford Bulldogs.

LETS GO! #Blackhawks prospect Nick Lardis has officially signed his ELC https://t.co/hazo28Z3wi— Talkin' Hawkey (@TalkinHawkey) April 3, 2024

In 2022-2023 the 5-11" forward was an exceptional talent, posting 65 points(37 G, 28A) in 69 games, split between both the Peterborough Petes and Brantford Bulldogs.

During the 2023-2024 season, Lardis had only played 37 games due to an upper-body injury which caused him to miss the OHL playoffs.

Even then in that time frame, he managed to post 50 points(29 G, 21 A) in 37 games.

With Lardis being 19 next season, he will have to remain in the OHL as he isn't old enough to play in the AHL.

He could slot in with the Rockford IceHogs at the conclusion of the 2024-2025 season, as it is doubtful he will find his way into the NHL within that timeframe.