Blackhawks 2025-26 Player Grades: Ryan Donato

Prior to last season, Ryan Donato had the season of his career, cashing in after posting 31 goals and 31 assists in 80 games for the Blackhawks. Originally signed on a two-year deal, Donato followed that up with a new four-year contract. However, his 2024-25 season was such an outlier, no one truly knew what his 2025-26 season was going to look like.

Well, his goals cut in about half, but his minutes also dropped from 16:19 average per night, to 14:44 average. Donato went from top-six staple, to bottom-six glue guy for most of the season. Respectably, Donato posted 30 points (15 goals, 15 assists) in a full 82 games played.

Donato’s role is very different now, and because of that, the offense regressed. However, when Kyle Davidson looks at his lineup and sees 15-20 goals in his bottom six courtesy of Ryan Donato, its hard to think that he doesn’t bring value. He’s well worth the $4 million a year he makes.

Player Grades

Blackhawks Cowboy’s Grade: C-

At last year’s trade deadline, one of the most talked-about players was Ryan Donato. Playing with Connor Bedard, Donato was in the midst of a 31-goal campaign for Chicago, and multiple teams, such as Washington and Ottawa, were in talks to acquire him. However, nothing came to fruition, and Kyle Davidson decided to resign Donato to a four-year, $4 million AAV deal. Year one hasn’t aged great. Everyone knew a regression would accompany Ryan with him being separated from Bedard, but the extent was concerning. Only 30 points in 82 games played for the Hawks, he was solid but with the extension and what was, its just below an average season for number 8. 

Tony Marchese’s Grade: C

It wasn’t last year’s version of Ryan Donato, but I don’t think anyone really expected to see him match or exceed his production from 2024-25. In that regard, I have this season as a solid C. There is definitely a bit more offense in Donato’s game than what was shown this season.

Ron Luce’s Grade: B-

A lot of people (I won’t name names) will rate Ryan Donato lower than I did. Yes, he regressed severely from his 31-goal season. However, he still filled a huge role for the Blackhawks in 2025-26. He played up and down the lineup, provided very good depth scoring, and played both center and wing. The versatility and depth role he filled still give him a strong grade.

What’s On Tap Next?

Ryan Donato will likely replicate this past season’s numbers, with a possible uptick thanks to better depth in the lineup. As of now, it is expected that Donato will play on the third line, unless something massive occurs. However, Donato still brings excellent depth for a Blackhawks team looking to take a big step forward next season.

Tell us if you agree with our grades! What would you give Ryan Donato? Let us know at @FourFeathersPod on X and Instagram!

Next Up: Anton Frondell