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Chicago Blackhawks complete swap with 31-goal scoring forward Ryan Donato

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Joshua Deeds
August 18, 2025 (8:58 PM)

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The Chicago Blackhawks and Jeff Blashill have appeared to demote Ryan Donato from his top-line role despite a career-high season in the Windy City and an extension signed with Kyle Davidson.

The Chicago Blackhawks must know something we don't know, as the team has demoted former 1st-line forward Ryan Donato.

Last season, Donato scored 62 points (31-31) and was a fixture on the 1st line near the end of the year. A well-earned promotion, all the way up from a checking role on the fourth.

And now, even after a $16 million extension, he's lost the trust of his superiors, even after outperforming Tyler Bertuzzi and the newest acquisition, Andre Burakovsky.

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Ryan Donato's Demotion Comes Unexpectedly

Donato was arguably the 2nd-best forward the Blackhawks had last season, next to Connor Bedard. He had a .78 PPG and was an efficient forward, playing only 13:08 TOI per game.

He was playing the kind of hockey you'd hope an underdog like Daniel Sprong would play. But instead, Donato punched above his weight and got to help see the Blackhawks through the rebuild.

We're not exactly understanding why Donato is being demoted when he's been capable of playing on special teams and outperforming Teuvo Teravainen.

The former 56th overall pick in the 2014 NHL Draft has more than earned a 1st-line role for next season.

We know, new coach, new look. However, it just seems Jeff Blashill is too eager to fix something that wasn't broken. Here's hoping it pays off.

Previously on Chicago Hockey Insider

Maple Leafs re-acquire former forward in intriguing trade pitch with the Chicago Blackhawks

A major announcement has been made involving Blackhawks goaltender Spencer Knight and the Montreal Canadiens

Chicago Blackhawks make a huge acquisition in Los Angeles: A 6-foot-6 reinforcement's incoming to the team

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AOUT 18 \| 408 ANSWERS Chicago Blackhawks complete swap with 31-goal scoring forward Ryan Donato Should forward Ryan Donato be on the Chicago Blackhawks' 1st-line?
Yes	263	64.5 %
No	145	35.5 %
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Chicago Blackhawks complete swap with 31-goal scoring forward Ryan Donato

The Chicago Blackhawks and Jeff Blashill have appeared to demote Ryan Donato from his top-line role despite a career-high season in the Windy City and an extension signed with Kyle Davidson.

Ryan Donato's Demotion Comes Unexpectedly

Should forward Ryan Donato be on the Chicago Blackhawks' 1st-line?