Foligno brothers unite on the Wild to honor their mother's legacy
The Minnesota Wild have brought in Nick Foligno after a trade with the Chicago Blackhawks. The deal, completed on 6 March, reunites him with his brother Marcus on the same team. Both players are now focusing on a shared mission—raising money for cancer research in memory of their late mother.
The brothers have faced each other 29 times in regular-season NHL games. Now, they will play together for the first time in their careers.
Nick Foligno joined the Wild for future considerations, leaving the Blackhawks after years of competition. His first game for Minnesota took place on 10 March, though Marcus watched from the press box due to injury. The reunion comes as the Wild push for a playoff spot, with Nick eager to help the team chase the Stanley Cup.
Beyond hockey, the Foligno brothers are raising funds through the Foligno Face-Off, a charity campaign supporting cancer research. Their mother, Janis, died of breast cancer in 2009, driving their commitment to the cause. Team Marcus currently leads with $86,441 raised, while Team Nick stands at $50,664. The goal is $200,000, with two final fundraising games against the Blackhawks on 21 and 23 March.
Marcus has won all three head-to-head matchups against Nick this season. Now, as teammates, their rivalry shifts to charity. Marcus joked that he aims to outraise his brother, just as he did on the ice.
The Foligno brothers will now play side by side for the Wild. Their focus remains on hockey success and raising funds for cancer research. With two key games ahead, they hope to reach their $200,000 target while supporting a cause close to their hearts.
