Blackhawks Player Grades: Ryan Donato

Ryan Donato began the season on Connor Bedard's wing, playing opposite veteran winger Taylor Hall. Hall only saw action in 10 games before his season ended prematurely, and Donato bounced around for most of the year. At times, Donato played in the top six. At other times, he played in a bottom-six role.

In 78 games (a career-high), Donato posted 12 goals and 18 assists in his first season with the Hawks. Donato also saw an average of 14:00 of ice time per night, ranking among the highest totals in his career. Although Donato will likely watch that number regress in 2024-25, he should be able to muster similar production, justifying his contract as one of the better investments on the roster.

Player Grades

Jonnie Nonnie's Grade: B

Some hockey analysts love to rip Ryan Donato's game to shreds, but he brings an undeniable energy to the ice. That combined with his point production on a team starved for it leaves me satisfied with what the Blackhawks got from Donato in 2023-24. I can overlook some of his flaws because his want-to in the offensive zone helped sustain shifts and create chances for his teammates and himself, and Donato capitalized on enough of them to earn a B from me.

Tony Marchese's Grade: B

Quietly one of the most reliable forwards on the Blackhawks in 2023-24. Ryan Donato put up a 30-point season while skating in 78 games (a career-high) for a team that was bitten by more than just the injury bug. He also showed solid versatility moving up and down the lineup throughout the season. All of the above earns him a solid B grade for the season. 

Ron Luce's Grade: B

Versatility, offensive ability anywhere in the lineup, and the ability to play all three forward spots made Donato a signing that I was personally excited about. Producing at a 30-point clip, with a lot of success later in the season, Donato was a wonderful addition to a team in need of depth scoring. This season, he should be a top depth scorer, but last season he did everything Kyle Davidson could've asked. It's a solid B grade from me.

What's On Tap Next?

Ryan Donato will enter the second year of his two-year deal. Likely destined for a bottom-six role, Donato will need to be a key contributor offensively from the bottom of the lineup to tangibly help the Hawks. If Donato can post a 30 to 35-point season, then the Hawks should have ample offense all throughout the lineup. 

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