In 2024-25, Ryan Donato had a career year with the Chicago Blackhawks. After setting out to improve his skating and offensive numbers a summer prior, it paid off for him, which led to a new contract.
After a 31-goal and 31-assist for 62-point season, Donato knew that he would be getting paid this off-season. After not being extended ahead of the 2025 trade deadline, it became unclear if the next deal would come in Chicago. Luckily for everyone involved, it did. Last week, the Blackhawks announced a new four-year deal with a $4 million cap hit.
Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) on XFOUR MORE YEARS OF RYAN DONATO‼️
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On Tuesday, Donato had his first media availability following his contract extension. He had a lot to say in regards to playing for the Chicago Blackhawks and why he chose to stay.
"There's temptations of the free market, but for me, I love Chicago," Donato said. "I'm a pretty loyal guy. I've always wanted to be a Blackhawk. I didn't want change."
At 29 years old, you're not expecting a career year again, but you can expect him to be a great mentor for the young talent coming through Chicago. He will score goals and make plays as well, which will certainly help them win more games as the team comes together with more skill.
"[They're] pushing themselves to make a big jump right away at the beginning of the season. Obviously, there's a lot of young guys, so the internal competition is going to be great. It's an incredible bright spot for the Blackhawks."
Donato knew that this was an interesting situation to be in at his career stage. He isn't getting any younger, but he's young enough to make an impact on a youth-filled core. He made it clear that he recognizes that the future is bright in Chicago, and he wants to be a part of it.
Next up for Chicago is taking a big step in the rebuild. 2025-26 might not be the year that they make the playoffs for the first time in a while or anything like that, but they'd like to have more meaningful improvement along the way. With that comes pressure. However, Donato has an interesting approach to that idea.
"It's hard to say pressure. I've always had a confidence for what I can do. For me, it's an opportunity league. I was very thankful for the opportunities that I've gotten here playing in Chicago. With that opportunity, I think I can do a lot."
For the first time in his NHL career, Donato is secure in a spot where he has found an elevated level of success. He wants to be in Chicago, his family wants to be in Chicago, and the Blackhawks organization wants him.
Will Donato play with Connor Bedard on the top line over the entire contract duration? Probably not. However, he knows that his role will redefine over time, and that will be his way of helping the organization become a winner again.
"I never really wanted to go anywhere else," Donato said of his negotiations. When a good player wants to stay that bad, believe them. He has been a great warrior throughout his NHL tenure up to this point. Now, it's time for the team to grow with the youth and veterans alike, all feeling good.
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