Blackhawks captain joins Minnesota in emotional move ahead of NHL trade deadline
Veteran NHL forward Nick Foligno is heading to the Minnesota Wild after being traded by the Chicago Blackhawks in a move that creates one of the league’s most emotional storylines. The 38-year-old winger will now play alongside his younger brother Marcus Foligno for the first time in their professional careers.
The trade was completed shortly before the NHL trade deadline and gives Minnesota additional veteran depth as the team pushes toward the playoffs.
Trade Details: Wild Acquire Foligno
Minnesota acquired Nick Foligno in a straightforward deal with Chicago.
Trade Breakdown
| Team | Received | Sent |
|---|---|---|
| Minnesota Wild | Nick Foligno (Forward) | Future considerations |
| Chicago Blackhawks | Future considerations | Nick Foligno |
The move allows the veteran forward to join a competitive team while also giving him the rare opportunity to share the ice with his brother.
A Family Moment in the NHL
The trade carries special meaning for the Foligno family. Nick Foligno will now skate with Marcus Foligno, who has been an important player for Minnesota for several seasons.
The brothers have both had long NHL careers but had never previously played on the same team. Now, as the Wild pursue a playoff run, the siblings will finally share the same locker room.
Nick Foligno expressed excitement about the opportunity, describing the move as an emotional moment in his career.
Nick Foligno’s Role With Minnesota
While Foligno is no longer in the prime scoring years of his career, he still brings valuable experience and leadership.
The Wild are expected to use him primarily in a bottom-six forward role, where his physical play and defensive awareness can help stabilize the lineup.
What Foligno Adds to Minnesota
- Veteran leadership
- Strong locker-room presence
- Physical play and defensive responsibility
- Playoff experience
These qualities are especially valuable for teams preparing for postseason hockey.
Nick Foligno’s 2025-26 Season Performance
Foligno played part of the season with the Chicago Blackhawks before the trade.
2025-26 Season Stats
| Category | Total |
|---|---|
| Games Played | 37 |
| Goals | 3 |
| Assists | 8 |
| Points | 11 |
Although the numbers are modest, his role in Chicago extended far beyond statistics. He served as team captain and helped mentor younger players during the rebuilding process.
Leadership Legacy in Chicago
During his three seasons with the Blackhawks, Foligno became one of the most respected veterans in the organization.
Chicago’s management credited him with helping develop the team’s young players and shaping the culture of the locker room.
His leadership and professionalism made him a valuable figure both on and off the ice.
Nick Foligno’s NHL Career
Foligno has enjoyed a long and successful NHL career spanning nearly two decades.
Career Profile
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Age | 38 |
| Position | Forward |
| Draft Year | 2006 |
| NHL Drafted By | Ottawa Senators |
| Seasons Played | 19 |
Career Statistics
| Category | Total |
|---|---|
| Games Played | 1,270 |
| Goals | 250 |
| Assists | 358 |
| Points | 608 |
Throughout his career, Foligno has played for several teams including:
- Ottawa Senators
- Columbus Blue Jackets
- Toronto Maple Leafs
- Boston Bruins
- Chicago Blackhawks
Minnesota’s Other Deadline Moves
The Wild were active before the trade deadline, making several roster adjustments.
Recent Minnesota Trades
| Move | Details |
|---|---|
| Acquired Nick Foligno | From Chicago Blackhawks |
| Acquired Bobby Brink | From Philadelphia Flyers |
| Traded Vinnie Hinostroza | To Florida Panthers |
These moves are designed to strengthen depth as Minnesota prepares for the postseason.
Nick Foligno’s move to Minnesota represents both a strategic addition and a memorable family moment. As the NHL season approaches its final stretch, the veteran forward will now help the Wild pursue postseason success while sharing the ice with his brother Marcus for the first time.
For Minnesota, the trade adds experience and leadership. For the Foligno family, it creates one of the most meaningful moments of the NHL season.
