Blackhawks extend Nick Foligno on expensive multi-year contract

The contract comes as Foligno is currently on the IR after sustaining a broken finger in an incident that exemplifies exactly why the Hawks extended him. Foligno is expected to be a veteran presence and mentor to the young Blackhawks, including Bedard, as they grow into professional hockey players and restore the winning culture in Chicago. For two more seasons now, the Blackhawks are committing to Foligno providing that leadership.

After Bedard was injured recently by a hit from Devils' defenceman Brenden Smith, Foligno stepped in and fought to make sure Smith answered for the hit. That's the type of leadership and culture the Blackhawks are paying a premium for with extending Foligno.

It's an extremely expensive contract for a 36 year old, but Foligno's had success with the Blackhawks this year - and the team needs to pay some players to meet the cap floor. In 39 games this season, Foligno has 8 goals and 17 points, and an impressive -4 rating on the lowly Hawks. With over 1100 NHL games played and at 36 years old, the Hawks are clearly fine with paying extra to retain the intangible Foligno brings to the team.