ST. LOUIS — Blackhawks captain Nick Foligno is taking a leave of absence because his 12-year-old daughter is having follow-up surgery related to her congenital heart disease.

The team made the announcement on Wednesday. The organization had no further comment.

Foligno, who turns 38 on Oct. 31, is in his third season with Chicago. The forward has no goals and two assists in four games.

“He’s a great, elite leader. He’s an extension of the coaching staff,” coach Jeff Blashill said. “And, so, now I think we have other guys in the room that can help pick it up. It’s like, as if he was injured, just next man up has to do the job.”

Playing without Foligno for the first time this season, Chicago rolled to an 8-3 victory at St. Louis on Wednesday night.

“We’re obviously praying for him and hi

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