# Blackhawks' Oliver Moore and Nick Lardis ready for second-year leaps

> Blackhawks' Oliver Moore and Nick Lardis could become key second-year contributors after rookie learning.
- Title: Blackhawks' Oliver Moore and Nick Lardis ready for…
- Summary: Blackhawks' Oliver Moore and Nick Lardis could become key second-year contributors after rookie learning. Oliver Moore and Nick Lardis are poised to fill…
- Keywords: oliver moore, nick lardis, blackhawks, nfl, nhl, blackhawks forward, second-year player, training camp, news, local, Blackhawks', Oliver
- Source: Chicago Sun-Times — https://chicago.suntimes.com/blackhawks/2026/09/20/blackhawks-oliver-moore-nick-lardis-depth-roles-training
- Published: 2026-09-20T11:30:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: oliver moore, nick lardis, blackhawks, nfl, nhl, blackhawks forward, second-year player, training camp, news, local
## Blackhawks depth needs
Blackhawks need more depth after years of lacking star power beyond Connor Bedard.
## Coach Blashill's view
Good teams have two lines, really good teams have three.

> Good teams have two lines, really good teams have three
## Oliver Moore's focus
Moore spent last season watching games from different vantage points.
## Moore's mental skills
Moore focused on poise with the puck and not showing it.

> The puck is gold
## Moore's position shift
Moore's game popped when moved to center last winter.
## Blashill on Moore
Blashill isn't sure Moore is better at center or wing.

> I don't know that he's better at center or wing
## Nick Lardis' speed
Lardis focused on increasing speed and explosiveness.
## Lardis' confidence
Lardis scored seven points in last 13 games after promotion.

> seven points including five goals
## Lardis' training
Lardis trained with Sharks youngsters in Vancouver.
## Blashill on Lardis
Blashill sees Lardis as strong and confident.

> stronger and more confident
## Lardis' role
Lardis will fill a finishing role on the line with Anton Frondell.
## Preseason opener
Blackhawks lost 3-2 in overtime to Minnesota in preseason opener.
## Next game
Blackhawks face Wild Monday for first real competition.
## Second-year leap
Moore and Lardis could make major leaps this season.
## Key takeaway

Oliver Moore and Nick Lardis are poised to fill important roles for the Blackhawks as second-year players after observing and learning during their rookie seasons.