Blackhawks “see a more confident Nick Lardis” in preseason

Chicago Blackhawks forward Nick Lardis has shown strong play and improved confidence during NHL preseason training camp. In his first preseason appearance on Sept. 21, Lardis registered a goal and an assist in 15:58 of ice time, helping Chicago earn a 4-3 overtime victory over the Minnesota Wild while skating on a line alongside Anton Frondell and Tyler Bertuzzi.

Lardis highlighted his skating and speed during the contest, notably stripping the puck from defenseman Daemon Hunt before scoring a first-period goal. Following off-season efforts focused on building overall strength, Lardis stated in practice on Sept. 23 that demonstrating his speed remains a primary goal for the 2026-27 season.