Ryan Donato was one of the Chicago Blackhawks [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/chicago-blackhawks]' biggest bright spots from their tough 2024-25 season. The Massachusetts native took his game to a brand new level this past campaign, as he set new career highs with 31 goals, 31 assists, and 62 points. This crushed his previous offensive career bests of 16 goals, 18 assists, and 31 points, so it was undoubtedly a special year for him. Donato was certainly rewarded for his outstanding 2024-25 campaign this off-season, as he signed a four-year, $16 million contract to stay with the Blackhawks. The Blackhawks' decision to keep Donato was truly a no-brainer, as he has emerged as an incredibly important part of their roster due to his fantastic play. Now, after getting his big payday from the Blackhawks, Donato will be a big player to watch during the 2025-26 season. His goal will be to build off his impressive 2024-25 campaign and prove that he can continue to be an impactful offensive contributor for the Blackhawks. If he has another big year in 2025-26, it would undoubtedly be massive for a Blackhawks team that needs all of the help that it can get as they look to take that next step. It will now be very fascinating to see what kind of year Donato has with the Blackhawks. He is easily one of their most intriguing players heading into next season. Ex-Blackhawks Forward Ranked Among NHL's Best Contracts [https://deweb-519a7.b-cdn.net/post-images/dcf38dae-063f-4f99-85c4-74729c0c8467.webp] Ex-Blackhawks Forward Ranked Among NHL's Best Contracts <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6513956/2025/07/29/nhl-best-contracts-2025-jack-hughes-brandon-hagel/">In a recent article for The Athletic</a>, Dom Luszczyszyn ranked the 10 best contracts in the NHL. While no current<a href="https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/chicago-blackhawks"> Chicago Blackhawks</a> player appears on the list, a notable former Blackhawk has made the cut. [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/chicago-blackhawks/latest-news/ex-blackhawks-forward-named-among-nhl-s-best-contracts] Photo Credit: © David Kirouac-Imagn Images
