5 Storylines To Follow During the Second Half of the Season for the Chicago Blackhawks

Frank Nazar's (possible) NHL debut.

There is speculation that the Blackhawks' second first-round pick in the 2022 draft will sign with the team after Michigan season ends.

When the Wolverines' season ends could throw a wrinkle on his signing and making his NHL debut. If Michigan makes the NCAA Tournament and a run to the Frozen Four, there will be no chance of him playing for the Blackhawks. The Frozen Four is April 11th and 13th. That would leave just two games left on the schedule once Michigan's season wraps up.

If Michigan does not make the tournament (they are 14-9-3 so there is a chance) or has a short stay, then there is some time for him to sign and debut with the Chicago Blackhawks.

Giving him a taste of the NHL is probably the best way to start his development. He is an amazing playmaker that the Hawks could use for the season's final games.

He had a strong World Juniors and projects to the team's future second-line center or play the wing (or center) on the top line with Bedard.

Colton Dach and Landon Slaggert possibly getting some NHL ice time

Two other prized prospects could make their NHL debut at some point this season. Dach has missed time this year in Rockford with an injury. He has 16 points in 23 games for the IceHogs.

There is hope among Blackhawks fans that Dach will get a call-up this season, especially with Reichel struggling. Dach can play up and down all four lines. The front office does not want to rush him like the team did with his brother, Kirby.

Slaggert is a Hawks prospect who confirmed he will sign with the team once Notre Dame's season ends. The Blackhawks' top brass consider him as the most NHL-ready player the team has among their group of prospects.

He is another forward with the ability to play on the top line or the fourth line. Whether he gets an opportunity to play in the NHL this season depends on the timing of the Fighting Irish finishing their season and the Hawks front office choosing his career should start in Chicago or Rockford.