Blackhawks Player Grades: Nick Foligno

Nick Foligno, "defaCto," whatever you want to call him, became an instant fan favorite. Between his feisty play on the ice and sense of leadership off the ice, Foligno quickly found a home in Chicago. Between mentoring face of the franchise Connor Bedard and serving as the undisputed leader, Foligno not only found himself a home, but he also had a career season that looked like a younger version of himself.

In his best season since 2016-17 with the Columbus Blue Jackets, Foligno played 74 games and tallied 37 points (17 goals, 20 assists). It was his highest point total since he posted 51 in the aforementioned season with Columbus. Foligno also played up and down the lineup, playing in the bottom six at times while flanking Bedard at other times.

Nonetheless, Foligno's presence was impressive and he was rewarded as he inked a two-year extension worth $4.5 million per season. Ultimately, Foligno was named the 35th captain in team history right before training camp opened for the 2024-25 season. 

It's safe to say Foligno had an incredible impact on the organization in his first season with the team.

Player Grades

Jonnie Nonnie's Grade: A-

The Blackhawks didn't name a captain for the 2023-24 season, but Nick Foligno quickly became defaCto. The seasoned veteran brought adequate point production and exceptional leadership to a rebuilding team in need of both, making his first season in Chicago a resounding success. Perhaps more importantly, Foligno cares deeply about building the Blackhawks' culture, and he'll be around for at least two more years to help usher it in.

Tony Marchese's Grade: A

I'm giving Foligno an A, not just for his on-ice performance but also for his off-ice presence. Not many veteran leaders like Foligino want to spend their remaining time in the game on a rebuilding hockey club. Foligno accepted his role, signed an extension, and actively WANTS to be a Chicago Blackhawk and lead the next generation of competitive hockey in Chicago. On the ice, he put up his best offensive season since 2016-17 (51 points) with 37 points in 74 games. That's also the most games Foligno has appeared in in a single season since 2016-17.

Ron Luce's Grade: A-

A culture player, an aging veteran with a scoring touch, and a skill set that every successful hockey team could use, Nick Foligno had a hell of a season for the Blackhawks. Hell, had one said he'd have a better season and more impactful season than Taylor Hall, I would've laughed. Instead, Foligno became a staple in the organization. He's here for two more years and will be an important piece to help usher in the new era of Hawks hockey.

What's On Tap Next?

Now that Nick Foligno has been named captain, he'll look to build on a successful first year. Between more talent, Connor Bedard going into his second season, and Foligno donning the "C," the 2024-25 season should be another successful one for the Blackhawks' leader.

Tell us if you agree with our grades! What would you give Nick Foligno? Let us know at @FourFeathersPod on X and Instagram!