After another strong game by Donato, suitors are in abundance and he's going to get a good return for the Blackhawks.
The Chicago Blackhawks' management have to be thrilled about the play of Ryan Donato this season. While they envisioned a better season overall by the team, there are some bright spots and some good that will come out of finishing at the bottom of the standings again.
Given the Blackhawks are so far out of the playoff race, it's a no-brainer to sell, which is what they started early by dealing Taylor Hall to the Carolina Hurricanes. Donato, along with a couple others, have to be on their way out too, but Donato offers the best overall package in a player and should arguably get the best return, especially among rentals.
Donato is in the last year of his contract with a $2 million AAV cap hit. That is very affordable for every team and while there are already at least seven teams rumored to have interest, it's easily conceivable that many more will join the party.
It is the perfect time for the Blackhawks and Donato for the 28-year-old to have a career year. It only took until he actually got a better opportunity that he was able to showcase the talent he possessed all along. He hits and plays up and down the lineup at any forward position asked of him.
Donato now sits at 18 goals and 36 points (both career highs) through 52 games this season. He is coming off his biggest game of the season scoring two even strength goals and recording two power-play assists to go along with that.
He is playing on the top line and top power play, but if traded, I don't expect him to get that kind of opportunity. For teams evaluating Donato's value, the Blackhawks can still sell him high considering he averages less than 15 minutes per game and he has played everywhere in the lineup with everyone while continuing to produce and play well.
It was originally reported that Donato would fetch a third round pick as a return, but with everything he brings to the table and the amount of interest he already has, it's only reasonable to think that price tag is rising. I don't think it will get as high as a first-round pick, but a second round pick would be a nice return for Donato at the trade deadline.
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