Nick Foligno, the seasoned forward for the Chicago Blackhawks, is at a crossroads in his nearly 20-year NHL career. With the March 6 NHL Trade Deadline looming, Foligno might have a chance to change his narrative and chase that elusive Stanley Cup.
The Blackhawks, sitting at 22-26-9 during the Olympic break and a daunting 10 points shy of a playoff spot, are staring at another spring without postseason action. This scenario sets the stage for some tough conversations between the 38-year-old Foligno and GM Kyle Davidson, especially since Foligno is in the final stretch of his two-year, $9 million contract inked in January 2024.
Foligno is acutely aware of the ticking clock on his Stanley Cup dreams. When asked about the possibility of being traded to a contender, he didn't shy away from the truth.
“I’d be lying if I said no, right?” Foligno admitted.
“There’s a huge part of me that wants that. It’s the ultimate goal.
You want to know you gave yourself every chance to win a Stanley Cup. So, yeah, it’s in the back of my mind.
Do I want it with this group? Absolutely.
But a lot can change in a week. It’s tough not being where I’d like us to be, but that’s the way it goes.”
While his offensive stats have dipped, with just two goals and 10 points in 33 games, Foligno remains a formidable power forward. He’s open to a trade but also willing to help the Blackhawks make a late-season push.
Having been a pivotal part of the roster, especially as captain over the last two years, Foligno values his role in Chicago.
“I’d like to have a conversation soon to see what he’s thinking,” Foligno said about Davidson. “Do I know?
Not really. Do I still feel great out there?
Yeah. Do I still want to play?
Absolutely. I really like [Jeff Blashill] and the coaching staff.
I like the direction we’re heading.
“Would it be fun to be part of it? Yeah.
But I understand the business. It is what it is.
I’ll make that decision when the time’s right. It’s just one of those things where you have to wait and see.”
While no decisions have been finalized, the 2025-26 Blackhawks are not in contention for the Cup. It wouldn’t be surprising if Foligno gets a shot at a championship in what could be his final NHL months.