The Chicago Blackhawks have announced two roster additions from their Rockford IceHogs affiliate as they prepare for upcoming games on the road. On Sunday, forwards Nick Lardis and goaltender Drew Commesso will join the Blackhawks for their trip to Dallas. This move follows a late scratch in the lineup and aims to bolster the team’s depth heading into a demanding back-to-back set of contests.
Commesso Steps in as Goalie Depth Due to Illness
Spencer Knight, the Blackhawks’ usual netminder, was forced to sit out Friday night’s game because of an illness. Given the uncertainty surrounding Knight’s availability for the upcoming matches, Drew Commesso has been called up to provide backup goaltending. If Knight remains sidelined through Monday, Commesso is expected to start in at least one of the games during the Dallas trip. This development provides the Blackhawks with a vital safeguard at the goalie position as they navigate through this uncertain stretch.
Nick Lardis Earns Promotion for Road Trip Role
Alongside Commesso, forward Nick Lardis will also join the Blackhawks roster for the trip. Lardis has shown promise with the Rockford IceHogs, and his recall indicates the team’s intention to strengthen its forward group amid a challenging slate of games. Elevating players from Rockford offers both depth and an opportunity for younger talent to gain NHL experience as the season progresses.
Quotes from Team Staff on Recent Moves
“The Blackhawks are calling up Nick Lardis and Drew Commesso, Blashill said. Spencer Knight won’t travel to Dallas due to his illness.”
— Ben Pope, Sports Reporter
Context Within the Blackhawks Season and Future Prospects
The timing of these recalls comes ahead of a rigorous schedule for Chicago, which includes a back-to-back in Dallas followed by a home game against Utah. The Blackhawks are currently managing roster challenges that include illnesses and a thin goalie pool. Integrating Drew Commesso and Nick Lardis into the lineup reflects the organization’s adaptive approach as they face this pivotal phase of the season. Commesso, considered a strong goalie prospect, offers a glimpse of the Blackhawks’ development pipeline, while Lardis adds youthful energy to the forward position.
These roster moves reflect the Blackhawks’ ongoing balancing act between immediate competitiveness and long-term rebuilding. With goaltender Spencer Knight’s health uncertain, the recalls ensure the team maintains stability in net. For the coaching staff and management, having reliable depth is essential to navigating injury and illness setbacks while continuing to expose young players to NHL-level competition.
Implications and Outlook for Upcoming Games
As the Blackhawks head into this stretch of games, the inclusion of Drew Commesso and Nick Lardis may impact the team’s performance and chemistry. Should Commesso get the start, it will be a crucial opportunity for him to demonstrate his readiness at the NHL level, potentially influencing future goaltending decisions for Chicago. Lardis will have a chance to contribute offensively and support the team’s efforts on the ice as the Blackhawks seek to gain momentum.
Looking forward, the Blackhawks’ ability to adapt to roster challenges will be key in their pursuit of better outcomes in the second half of the season. With general manager Kyle Davidson’s focus on a patient rebuild and nurturing the next generation of talent, these recalls underscore a dual strategy of competing while preparing for future success.
The Blackhawks are calling up Nick Lardis and Drew Commesso, Blashill said.
Spencer Knight won’t travel to Dallas due to his illness.
— Ben Pope (@BenPopeCST) March 7, 2026
