Some things are bigger than hockey. And this is one of those cases. Chicago Blackhawks' captain Nick Foligno will be taking a brief leave of absence from the team and hockey as he deals with a close family matter.

Foligno Taking Brief Leave

According to a team statement, his daughter will undergo a follow-up surgery for a congenital heart disease. The Blackhawks and Foligno will not have any further comment at this time.

Looking Ahead for the Blackhawks

The Blackhawks will be playing tonight against their rival, the St. Louis Blues. Their schedule for the next five games is as such:

Oct. 17 at home against the Vancouver Canucks

Oct. 19 at home against the Anaheim Ducks

Oct. 23 away against the Tampa Bay Lightning

Oct. 26 at home against the Los Angeles Kings

Oct. 28 at home agains

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