Positive news shines on the Blackhawks as a longtime NHL veteran re-joins the team after his absence
Photo credit: NHL.com
The Chicago Blackhawks captain Nick Foligno shared positive news as the longtime NHL veteran re-joins the team after a leave of absence.
For the last three games, the Chicago Blackhawks' young core had to compete without their captain Nick Foligno, as the NHL veteran took a leave of absence from the team.
Indeed, Foligno was beside his daughter as she underwent surgery, as we learned in an official press release from the Hawks organization:
"Blackhawks captain Nick Foligno is taking a brief leave of absence as his daughter undergoes follow-up surgery related to her congenital heart disease. Neither Nick nor the Blackhawks will have any further comment at this time."
The Blackhawks did well without him, winning two of their last three games, including an impressive 8-3 win over the St. Louis Blues, and a great team effort in a 2-1 win over the Anaheim Ducks last night.
Today, the team was back on the ice for practice ahead of their next game, set to take place Thursday, and an official update on Foligno was made.
Chicago Blackhawks Captain Nick Foligno Returns With The Team After Official Leave Of Absence
Foligno was back on the ice today with his teammates for the first time in nearly a week.
Per Ben Pope:
"Amazing news: Nick Foligno said his daughter Milana is back home and recovering from her heart surgery.
He said Boston Children's Hospital and Lurie Children's Hospital in Chicago were both invaluable, as was the support he and she received from the hockey world: «Our family is so humbled and appreciative for all the support and love.»"
He said Boston Children's Hospital and Lurie Children's Hospital in Chicago were both invaluable, as was the support he and she received from the hockey world: «Our family is so humbled and appreciative for all the support and love.»"
Foligno, 37, is in the last year of his contract valued at $4,500,000 AAV. This season, he tallied two points, all assists, in four games, with a -1 plus/minus.
Being able to count on him for the next game against the hungry Tampa Bay Lightning on Thursday is crucial for the team, even if others stood up while he was away.
