There are multiple ways that Ryan Donato can positively impact the 2026-27 Chicago Blackhawks.
During the 2024-25 season, playing on Connor Bedard's wing for most of the season allowed Ryan Donato to reach offensive heights that he never thought possible.
Before that season, Donato never had more than 16 goals or 31 points. Alongside Bedard, however, he had 31 goals and 31 assists for 62 points. Doubling his career totals in both categories earned him an extension with the Chicago Blackhawks.
In 2025-26, under a new head coach, Jeff Blashill, Donato was never allowed to play with Bedard again. He reverted to numbers that match his career more, scoring 15 goals and 15 assists for 30 points. It's nothing that Donato did wrong; there are just more practical ways to use him and get more out of everyone on the roster.
Those are nice offensive numbers for Donato in a bottom-six role. The team as a whole didn't play a strong defensive game, but he is capable of playing the right way in all three zones when those who surround him are good.
Being a great leader on and off the ice is where Donato can help the Blackhawks most going forward. With Patrick Kane back in the mix, Roman Kantserov getting a look in the top six, and the development of other young players, Donato is likely not going back to Bedard's wing. He may get minutes there for an offensive spark from time to time, but never permanently.
His 15 goals and 30 points are perfect if he is going to be that veteran that every young team needs low in the lineup. A commitment to the team, being hard to play against, and strong defensive play are things that Donato is capable of providing. Young players trying to stick around look up to guys like that.
There is no Jason Dickinson, Connor Murphy, Nick Foligno, or Andre Burakovsky around as older leaders anymore. Donato is one of the tenured players that Jeff Blashill will have in the bottom six to relay messages. Players like Donato help bridge the gap between coaches and players who are under the age of 23.
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