Former Boston Bruins fan favorite **Nick Foligno** delivered a fiery response after taking a high hit from Columbus Blue Jackets newcomer **Joseph LaBate** during Thursday’s game. LaBate, playing his first NHL game of the season after a call-up from the AHL’s Cleveland Monsters, leveled Foligno with a stick to the upper back, sending the veteran crashing to the ice.
The **Chicago Blackhawks captain** wasted no time retaliating, shedding his gloves and landing three quick left-handed punches before LaBate could fully defend himself. Foligno, affectionately dubbed “Uncle Nick” during his two-season stint in Boston (12 goals, 27 assists in 124 games), showcased his trademark toughness in his 18th NHL campaign.
LaBate, who signed a one-year, two-way deal with Columbus in November, has spent most of the season in the AHL (6 goals, 7 assists in 33 games). The 30-year-old forward last appeared in the NHL during the 2016-17 season with Vancouver.
Foligno, traded to Chicago after Boston’s record-breaking 65-win 2022-23 season, continues to be a physical presence for the rebuilding Blackhawks. The scrap underscored his reputation as a locker-room leader — even in a heated moment.
During a recent game between the **Chicago Blackhawks** and **Columbus Blue Jackets**, veteran forward **Nick Foligno** (now with Chicago) was on the receiving end of a high, stick-infused hit from **Joseph LaBate**, a 30-year-old Blue Jackets forward making his season debut. The collision occurred along the boards, with LaBate’s stick making contact above Foligno’s shoulders, sending the Blackhawks captain sprawling to the ice.
**Foligno’s Response:**
Known for his grit, Foligno immediately retaliated, dropping his gloves and landing three quick punches before LaBate could fully engage. The scuffle highlighted Foligno’s reputation as a respected enforcer and leader—traits that made him a fan favorite during his two seasons with the **Boston Bruins** (2021–2023), where he tallied 39 points in 124 games and became a key locker-room voice.
**LaBate’s Background:**
– LaBate, a 6’5” forward, signed a **one-year, two-way contract** with Columbus in November 2023 after spending most of the season with the AHL’s **Cleveland Monsters** (13 points in 33 games).
– His NHL experience is limited: 13 games with the **Vancouver Canucks** in 2016–17, where he recorded zero points and 19 penalty minutes.
– This call-up was a critical opportunity for LaBate to prove his value as a physical fourth-line option.
**Game Impact:**
– The fight occurred in the **second period**, with Chicago trailing at the time. While Foligno’s retaliation fired up the Blackhawks’ bench, Columbus ultimately won the game **4-2**.
– **Penalties**: Both players received five-minute fighting majors. LaBate was *not* penalized for the initial high stick, which drew criticism from analysts and fans.
**Broader Implications:**
– **For Foligno**: At 36 years old, the 18-year NHL veteran remains a vocal leader for Chicago’s young roster. His toughness and experience are invaluable for a rebuilding team.
– **For LaBate**: The physical play could help him carve out a niche as a depth enforcer, but his limited offensive upside and age (30) make a long-term NHL role unlikely.
– **League Reaction**: The lack of a penalty on LaBate’s high hit reignited debates about inconsistent officiating, particularly regarding stick infractions.
**Historical Note:**
Foligno’s time in Boston ended after the Bruins’ historic **65-win 2022–23 season**, when he was traded to Chicago to free cap space. Bruins fans still fondly remember his leadership during that record-breaking year.
**What’s Next:**
– Foligno will continue mentoring Chicago’s prospects, including **Connor Bedard**, while balancing his role as a physical presence.
– LaBate’s future hinges on his ability to stay in Columbus’ lineup as a gritty depth piece. His next NHL goal? Simply staying off the AHL shuttle.
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