Friday morning, the Chicago Blackhawks announced the team had reached a two-year, $9 million contract extension with forward Nick Foligno. The contract will carry a cap hit of $4.5 million annually. Sources tell CHGO Blackhawks the contract does not carry a no-movement clause.

Foligno, 36, has eight goals and nine assists in 39 games with the Blackhawks this season and has served as one of the team’s alternate captains.

“The impact Nick has already had on our team in such a short time is a testament to his work ethic and dedication to helping the players around him succeed,” said Blackhawks General Manager Kyle Davidson in a statement. “Hard-working on the ice, the energy he brings every night and his versatility to play in any situation have been tremendous assets. His leadership skills both on and off the ice have been instrumental in what we are building, and we are excited for him continue to push our team forward.”

When the Blackhawks traded for Foligno’s rights this summer, they sought a mentor and leader for Connor Bedard and his young Blackhawks teammates. Foligno has thrived in the role.

“There shouldn’t be a day where you, as an older player, are pulling energy out of a young kid,” Foligno told CHGO Blackhawks in December. “They come in, and they’re the first ones on the ice and excited…they’re almost bouncing around. It gets you excited to get to the rink. I love it. The young group we have here…they understand their responsibility of trying to push this thing along.”

Coincidently, our CHGO Blackhawks Show just announced that Foligno will be a regular contributor to their show. His first visit is scheduled for Monday, January 15th at 2:30 pm.