Ranking the Chicago Blackhawks' Top 25 Prospects: No's 6-10

No. 7: Nick Lardis (2023 Draft: Round 3 #67 overall)

When he was selected early in the third round of the 2023 draft, many immediately called Nick Lardis a steal for the Blackhawks.

Starting his draft season with the Peterborough Pete's (OHL), Lardis was traded to the Hamilton Bulldogs (OHL) and finished the year with 37 goals in 69 games. His speed and great shot made him a no-brainer for the Blackhawks when he was still available at pick 67.

Lardis' 2023-24 season saw him return to the Bulldogs, now playing in Brampton, Ontario. Despite only playing in 37 games due to a wrist injury, Lardis scored 29 goals and 50 points. His strong play resulted in the young forward signing his entry-level contract with the Blackhawks.

The biggest strengths to Lardis' game are his skating ability and his shot. He is a natural goal scorer who is dangerous from just about anywhere in the offensive zone. Lardis uses his speed and shot to quickly surprise goalies off the rush. Some believe that his speed and shot are already not far off from being NHL caliber.

A weakness of Lardis' game is his defensive play. He has the speed and abilities to grow in that area, but it still needs some refining. That is an area of his game likely to be worked on in his season as he returns to the OHL for his final year of junior hockey.