Chicago Forward Has Surgery, Season Likely Over

The Chicago Blackhawks have started an unpopular rebuild and are planning on giving their young core some more minutes this upcoming season. Forward Alex Nylander was one of the forwards the team is looking to build around once their veterans give way. Unfortunately for Nylander and the Blackhawks, he won't be contributing anytime soon.

Chicago #Blackhawks forward Alex Nylander has undergone surgery to his left knee (meniscus) and is expected to miss 4-6 months.

— NHL News (@PuckReportNHL) December 23, 2020

The 22-year-old Nylander enjoyed a breakout season last year for the Blackhawks and finished the year with 26 points in 65 games. It was the first year where Nylander had a regular shift in the NHL and his 65 games played were five times as many as his previous career high with the Buffalo Sabres. 

Needless to say the Blackhawks were looking forward to having Nylander play within their top-9 forwards this year and it appears his season is over before it even began. 

Tough blow for the Blackhawks, and horrible timing for Nylander.

Photo credit: Brett Holmes/Icon Sportswire