Minnesota Wild forward Nick Foligno received a standing ovation from Chicago Blackhawks fans Tuesday during his return to the United Center in the Wild-Blackhawks game.
The tribute came just weeks after Foligno was traded to Minnesota at the NHL Trade Deadline on March 6.
During a stoppage in the first period, the Blackhawks played a video honoring the former captain, prompting fans to stand and applaud.
Foligno greeted the crowd with a salute while a fan held a sign that read, “Thanks Nick!”
He spent three seasons in Chicago from 2023 to 2026 and was named the team’s 36th captain ahead of the 2024-25 season.
Before the game, Foligno reflected on his time with the organization and the emotional return.
“A lot of emotions. I’m so grateful for my time here (Chicago) and what it means to me and my family and the people we’ve met on and off the ice,” he said.
“It’s pretty special that I can come back here so soon and celebrate with them in some way. And thank the fans and the organization for trusting me… I’ve enjoyed my time here,” he added.
Foligno also reunited with former teammates prior to the game, sharing a meal with them the night before.
