Chicago Blackhawks 2025-26 Player Grades: Ryan Donato

This season, he was deployed almost exclusively as a bottom-six depth player, and on the second power play unit. He played on the second line for a short time, but that was only because both Bedard and Frank Nazar were out with injuries. His average ice time also dropped from 16:19 minutes to 14:44 minutes. Different deployment and more limited ice time is invariably going to affect production.

“It’s hard, and part of that’s opportunity,” said head coach Jeff Blashill in January about Donato’s lower production.  “I think if I’m in his shoes; I’ve been in and out of the power play. I’ve played kind of on lines two through four and not on one at all. So it’s hard to score to the same level when you’re not playing, (not) getting those same opportunities. So that’s just reality.”

Blashill further commended Donato for taking the role he was given and doing his best to maximize that role . The 30-year-old is also not afraid to shoot the puck. His 122 shots on goal was fifth on the team, behind Bedard, Tyler Bertuzzi, Nazar and Ilya Mikheyev. His 15 goals was actually fourth on the team, tied with Nazar. That’s commendable production for a depth player.

Donato also embraced a more physical checking role for the team. He brought tenacity and a high compete level every time he hit the ice. His 78 hits was sixth on the team, and he didn’t hesitate to mix it up with the opponent. This all set a great example for the younger players of a strong work ethic, and right way to play the game. Per Blashill, “We want to create an atmosphere here where guys are learning to score points but still play a complete game, and I think he’s working hard at doing that.”

Another thing Donato provided was versatility in the lineup. He lined up on both wings and at center throughout the season, depending on where Blashill felt he was most needed on any given night. Not to mention the Boston, Massachusetts native was the only player to suit up for all 82 games this season.

Quotable Quotes

I have two quotes for Donato in this grade piece; the first being Blashill complimenting the veteran for his attitude and mentorship.

He’s been a great person, great teammate. Wants to be a really good player. He’s taken on different roles, and certainly cannot speak highly enough about his character.

The second is from Donato himself, after a 4-3 win over the Dallas Stars on Jan. 1. He was asked postgame about what the team did right, and his response perfectly encapsulates what Donato brings to the team.

I would say getting pucks to the net, winning faceoffs, blocking shots, winning boards battles, getting pucks deep at the right times, turnovers, that kind of thing…I think if we continue to be hungry and continue to get better, we’ll continue to make games hard for the other team.

Donato’s Final Grade: C+

It’s easy to say Donato’s season was a disappointment, if you’re looking at production and comparing his stats to last campaign. But his numbers this season were actually very consistent with his career numbers. His contributions as a depth forward and a mentor were important for the Blackhawks, and he will likely continue in a similar role next season.