In a move that has sent shockwaves through the hockey world, the Chicago Blackhawks have officially named Nick Foligno as their new team captain. The 36-year-old forward, heading into his second season with the Blackhawks, becomes the 35th captain in franchise history, succeeding the legendary Jonathan Toews who held the position from 2008 to 2023.
General manager Kyle Davidson expressed his confidence in the decision, stating, “In a very short amount of time, Nick has quickly earned the respect of his teammates and our staff. Nick’s commanding presence in the locker room has been instrumental in helping the team find its identity.” Davidson continued, “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.”
Drafted 28th overall by the Ottawa Senators in 2006, Foligno has amassed an impressive resume in his 17-year NHL career. After spending five seasons in Ottawa, Foligno was traded to the Columbus Blue Jackets where he served as captain for six seasons. He was named an NHL All-Star in 2015 and received the King Clancy Memorial Trophy and Mark Messier Leadership Award in 2017.
Reflecting on his new role, Foligno remarked, “The fact that Danny [Wirtz], Kyle [Davidson], Luke [Richardson] 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. 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.”
Throughout his career, the Buffalo, New York native has appeared in 1,155 career regular season games, scoring 232 goals and tallying 562 points for the Senators, Blue Jackets, Toronto Maple Leafs, Boston Bruins, and now the Blackhawks. With a wealth of experience under his belt, Foligno is poised to lead Chicago into a new chapter of their storied history.
The Blackhawks will kick off their regular season on Oct. 8 against the Utah Hockey Club, with Foligno at the helm ready to guide his team to victory.
