The Chicago Blackhawks announced on Friday that they have signed veteran forward Nick Foligno to a two-year contract extension with a cap hit of $4.5 million per season. The contract does not include any trade protection clauses according to reports.
Nick is here to stay! 📝 pic.twitter.com/CHDTqpXq1R
— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) January 12, 2024
Foligno has been a breath of fresh air for the Blackhawks this season. Foligno was acquired over the offseason as part of the Taylor Hall trade with the Boston Bruins to add leadership on and off the ice for a young Blackhawks team. Foligno has delivered those intangibles in spades, exceeding expectations most people had.
But, not only has Foligno been a great addition off the ice, but he has also performed well on it. The 36-year-old posted 17 points (eight goals, nine assists) in 39 games before suffering a broken finger against the New Jersey Devils last week. Those totals nearly match Foligno’s output from last season with the Bruins, when he played 60 games, and already surpass his totals from the 2021–22 season.
Foligno has been vocal about enjoying the opportunity to take on an expanded role both on and off the ice this season, saying it has rejuvenated his play on the ice and motivation off it. Foligno’s 17:31 average time on ice this season is his highest since the 2020–21 season, when he averaged 18:09 of ice time with the Columbus Blue Jackets before being dealt to the Toronto Maple Leafs at the trade deadline.
“The impact Nick has already had on our team in such a short time is a testament to his work ethic and dedication to helping the players around him succeed,” said Blackhawks General Manager Kyle Davidson in a press release. “Hard-working on the ice, the energy he brings every night and his versatility to play in any situation have been tremendous assets. His leadership skills both on and off the ice have been instrumental in what we are building, and we are excited for him continue to push our team forward.”
The Blackhawks return to the ice on Saturday, hosting the Dallas Stars for a 7 p.m. CST puck drop.