While the Chicago Blackhawks haven't been very successful on the ice this season, it's a different story for their college prospects. Following the Jan. 27 weekend of Big Ten hockey action, a pair of Blackhawks prospects have earned their first Star of the Week honors. Michigan's Frank Nazar was named the first Star of the Week and Minnesota's Oliver Moore earned the second Star honors.
#B1GHockey Three Stars
— Big Ten Hockey (@B1GHockey) January 30, 2024
⭐️ @umichhockey's Frank Nazar III, F
⭐️⭐️ @GopherHockey’s Oliver Moore, F
⭐️⭐️⭐️ @PennStateMHKY's Aiden Fink, F
➕ https://t.co/ANg8IZO4V2 pic.twitter.com/kfBR5lqC1U
Nazar's Wolverines split their two games with the Wisconsin. In those contests, Nazar recorded five points (three goals, two assists) and notched a game-winning tally in the Wolverines' victory.
On the season, Nazar has 32 points (13 goals, 19 assists) in 24 games. The Wolverines have 10 games remaining before the Big Ten tournament, meaning Nazar should only continue to shine in his impressive sophomore campaign.
As for Moore, the freshman recorded four points (three goals, one assist) in the Golden Gophers' split with Michigan State. Moore is now fourth on the team in points with 25 (six goals, 19 assists) in 26 games.
Minnesota has eight games remaining ahead of the Big Ten tournament, meaning Moore can continue to add to his totals in his first collegiate season. The 19-year-old doubled his goal total after his weekend performance.
Nazar and Moore were both on the Gold Medal-winning World Juniors USA team. Nazar dominated the tournament while Moore played more of a bottom-six role.
Two other Blackhawks prospects have earned honors throughout the Big Ten season. Notre Dame forward Landon Slaggert has taken home third Star of the Week honors twice during the campaign. He was honored the weekend of Oct. 31 and Nov. 14. Additionally, Minnesota defenseman Sam Rinzel earned third Star honors the weekend of Jan. 16.
Of the four prospects mentioned, Nazar and Slaggert are the two players closest to the NHL. Slaggert could debut as soon as this season following the conclusion of Notre Dame's campaign. As for Nazar, he could easily make the Blackhawks out of training camp next season if he chooses to sign and turn pro.
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