A video has resurfaced on the web from 2023 showing Blackhawks newly promoted captain Nick Foligno battling with then rookie defenseman Kevin Korchinski showing why he was chosen as the Blackhawks new captain.

The video clip showed Korchinski and Foligno battling in front of the net as the rookie attempts to keep the veteran away from the net. Korchinski does a great job and only allows one shot from Foligno. After their scrum, Foligno skated over to the rookie and pointed to him repeatedly showing his respect and showing him that he knows what he’s doing when it comes to defence.

The fallout from this decision continues to filter down throughout the organization and the fan base, many feel this is the right move currently as the Blackhawks are emerging from their rebuilding phase and hoping to make some noise within the next Few years to become a playoff contender again.

During his interview after the announcement, Foligno stated that he feels that he is a transitional leader and that when the time comes, he will pass the torch on to future superstar Connor Bedard who will then become captain of the team.

This move also allows Bedard to continue to grow his game as he’s only entering his second year in the NHL. With the team improving on all levels, general manager Kyle Davidson along with head coach Luke Richardson will do whatever is necessary to help Bedard grow and become an elite force.

Having the 36-year-old veteran take the heat from the media every night is the best way to shelter him now so that he can become the leader they hope he will be in the next few years.