Chicago Blackhawks' Frank Nazar Injured by Puck, Requires Dental Work; Team Faces Lineup Challenges

April 12, 2026
Chicago Blackhawks' Frank Nazar Injured by Puck, Requires Dental Work; Team Faces Lineup Challenges
  • Frank Nazar of the Chicago Blackhawks left the 5-3 loss to the St. Louis Blues after being hit in the face by a puck, requiring dental work but expected to be fine, per coach Jeff Blashill.

  • The Blackhawks, who are last in the standings, have two games remaining in the season.

  • Forward Andrew Mangiapane left the game in the third period after crashing into the net and is listed as day to day by coach Blashill.

  • Ethan Del Mastro was scratched due to an unspecified injury, leading to Sam Lafferty moving to defense, a role he’s familiar with from practice and college play.

  • Blashill noted Lafferty’s versatility and prior experience as a defenseman to fill the lineup gap.

  • The coach added that Nazar should be fine and referenced the dental work after the incident.

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  • Nazar, 22, a first‑round pick from 2022, has 15 goals and 26 assists in 64 games this season and recently signed a seven‑year extension worth $46.2 million with Chicago.

  • Nazar departed about 3-1/2 minutes into the second period, discarding his stick and gloves in frustration as he left the ice.

  • Blashill highlighted Lafferty’s versatility and experience on defense to adapt to lineup changes during the game.

Summary based on 3 sources


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