Minnesota Wild Acquire Nick Foligno from Chicago Blackhawks Ahead of NHL Trade Deadline

The Minnesota Wild made a significant move ahead of the NHL trade deadline by acquiring forward Nick Foligno from the Chicago Blackhawks on Friday. In exchange, the Wild sent future considerations back to the rebuilding organization.

Foligno, who has been serving as captain for the Blackhawks over the last two seasons and previously led the Columbus Blue Jackets for six seasons, will now have the opportunity to play with his brother Marcus Foligno on the Wild. This move also allows him to chase a Stanley Cup with Minnesota.

The Chicago Blackhawks played their first game at the United Center in 32 days Friday night, facing the Vancouver Canucks as a younger, future-focused team. It was the first look at how the Hawks' youth would handle things without captain Nick Foligno and alternates Jason Dickinson and Connor Murphy, all of whom were dealt this week.

The sudden loss of leadership affected the Hawks, who fell to the NHL-worst Canucks 6-3 for their fourth loss in five games since the Olympic break and 13th in their last 17. The crowd was quiet as the Hawks were still staggering from a quick 3-0 deficit early in the first period.

In 37 games this season, Foligno recorded three goals and eight assists for the Blackhawks. The Wild, who have been active in the trade market all week, previously acquired forward Bobby Brink from the Philadelphia Flyers and sent defenseman David Jiricek to the Flyers. Additionally, Minnesota traded forward Vinnie Hinostroza to the Florida Panthers for future considerations.

The Chicago Blackhawks, meanwhile, continue their rebuilding process by trading away veteran players. General manager Kyle Davidson has been active in making deals that bring in draft picks and young talent. The Hawks have made several trades this week, including sending defenseman Connor Murphy and forwards Jason Dickinson and Colton Dach to the Edmonton Oilers.

Davidson emphasized the importance of youth development and future success over an immediate playoff push. 'The locker room is going to be quieter without (Nick Foligno), he’s a loud, vocal guy,' said Frank Nazar. 'I’ll stick to saying what I say and being me, and other guys are going to do the same, and I know it’s going to work out.'

The Hawks acquired two draft picks — the Oilers’ 2027 first-rounder and 2028 second-rounder — and left winger Andrew Mangiapane in return for the three veterans and Colton Dach. Davidson has preached about giving his young players experience come the deadline, signaling a long-term vision for the franchise’s rebuild.

The NHL trade deadline was set for Friday at 2 p.m. CT. The Wild are scheduled to play the Las Vegas Golden Knights on Friday night.