NHL: Chicago Blackhawks at Carolina Hurricanes Chicago Blackhawks center Ryan Donato (8) looks on during the warmups before the game against the Carolina Hurricanes at Lenovo Center. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images

Chicago Blackhawks make $16 million decision on veteran

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Jordan Sigler | Last updated Jun 18, 2025 6:06 PM ET

The Chicago Blackhawks entered the offseason knowing they had a few key contracts to deal with after they found a head coach. With Jeff Blashill officially replacing Luke Richardson as head coach, general manager Kyle Davidson has to decide how he wants to proceed with Connor Bedard, who is eligible for a contract extension this summer.

On Wednesday, the Blackhawks took care of another question they had on the roster. With Chicago wanting to add quality talent in free agency or via trade, Davidson needed to make a decision on veteran forward Ryan Donato.

The Chicago Blackhawks extended Ryan Donato’s contract

Per Charlie Roumeliotis of WGN, the Blackhawks extended Donato for four seasons at $4 million per year, which comes out to a $16 million extension with two weeks before he was set to hit free agency.

“The Chicago Blackhawks have signed forward Ryan Donato to a four-year contract extension with an annual cap hit of $4 million, the team announced Wednesday,” Roumeliotis wrote. “Donato was set to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, but it always felt like both sides would eventually find common ground. He loves the Blackhawks, and the Blackhawks love him.”

Donato was selected in the second round of the 2015 draft by the Boston Bruins. Following stints with the Minnesota Wild, San Jose Sharks, and Seattle Kraken, Donato signed with the Blackhawks in 2023 on a two-year deal worth $4 million.

Donato, 29, played in 80 games with the Blackhawks last season, earning 62 points via 31 goals and 31 assists.

NHL: Los Angeles Kings at Chicago Blackhawks Mar 3, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Blackhawks center Ryan Donato (8) hugs goaltender Spencer Knight after the third period against the Los Angeles Kings at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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