The Chicago Blackhawks have named the 35th captain in franchise history. Nick Foligno has received the honour of being named the next Blackhawk captain. News of this emerged on Wednesday morning.
Blackhawks Name Nick Foligno Captain
YOUR CAPTAIN NICK FOLIGNO
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— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) September 18, 2024
Foligno is the first captain since Jonathan Toews, who captained the team from 2008-2023.
“In a very short amount of time, Nick has quickly earned the respect of his teammates and our staff,” said general manager Kyle Davidson. “Nick’s commanding presence in the locker room has been instrumental in helping the team find its identity. He has served as a mentor to many of our young players both on and off the ice while also heading up the leadership group comprised of our veteran players, and we are beyond confident that he will flourish in the role of captain as we usher in a new era of Blackhawks hockey.”
The 17-year veteran is coming off his first season with the Blackhawks. Foligno recorded 37 points in 74 games. He finished the season tied for first on the team in power play goals with eight, while he ranked third on the team in points with 37, fourth in assists with 20, and shared fourth in goals with 17.
Foligno was awarded with a contract extension in January. Between that and the captaincy, it is clear the team thinks highly of Foligno. That is not something Foligno is taking lightly.
“The fact that Danny, Kyle, Luke and my teammates have all put their faith in me to lead this amazing group is extremely humbling, and I thank them all for the opportunity,” Foligno said. “I am beyond honored to serve as captain for this storied franchise and its incredible fans, especially during such a pivotal time toward the team’s future.”
Not His First Rodeo
Foligno has served as a captain previously. Foligno was the captain of the Columbus Blue Jackets from 2015-21. Under Foligno’s leadership, the Blue Jackets made the playoffs in four straight seasons. Furthermore, the team won their first playoff series in franchise history. They did so in exciting fashion. The Blue Jackets swept the President’s Trophy-winning Tampa Bay Lightning in 2019.
The Blackhawks would love to see similar results under Foligno’s leadership. The Blackhawks have not made the playoffs since the 2020 bubble. However, with Foligno’s leadership and the talent of Connor Bedard, brighter days are coming in the Windy City.
Main photo by: Jamie Sabau-Imagn Images
