Blackhawks name Nick Foligno captain

The Chicago Blackhawks announced veteran forward Nick Foligno as the 35th captain in franchise history on Wednesday.

He'll be the first player to wear the "C" for the club since Jonathan Toews, who has not officially retired, but took time away from the sport in 2023-24 for health reasons and remains unsigned.

"In a very short amount of time, Nick has quickly earned the respect of his teammates and our staff," Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson said. "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."

Foligno served as captain of the Columbus Blue Jackets for six seasons from 2015-21. He won the Mark Messier NHL Leadership Award and the King Clancy Memorial Trophy in 2016-17.

The 36-year-old joined the Blackhawks ahead of the 2023-24 campaign and is under contract for two more years. He tallied 17 goals and 20 assists during his first season in the Windy City.

“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," 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."

Foligno has also played for the Ottawa Senators, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Boston Bruins in his 17-year NHL career. The Sens drafted him 28th overall in 2006.

Four teams remain without a captain: the Anaheim Ducks, Buffalo Sabres, Seattle Kraken, and Utah.