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Ottawa Senators nearing the acquisition of Chicago Blackhawks' leading scorer
Photo credit: NHL
The number-one trade destination for Chicago Blackhawks forward Ryan Donato has been revealed, per a report from Sportsnet.
As the NHL trade deadline on March 7 nears, trade talks are heating up regarding the Chicago Blackhawks' leading goal scorer, Ryan Donato.
With 22 goals and 59-points on a dwelling Blackhawks roster, Donato's current play brings sought-after needs to contending NHL organizations.
Unfortunately for Blackhawks fans, after Wednesday's game, Donato's time with the team will be over, as latest reports confirm that the Blackhawks can't withstand the amount of value Donato has accumulated, and they are in dire need to cash in.
Just one week ago, Sportsnet released a report confirming that Ottawa Senators' GM Steve Staios is actively pursuing trade talks with the Blackhawks involving the 28-year old forward.
Fast forwarding a short amount of time, and it seems as though it is just days until Donato is a member of the Senators organization, after a follow-up report was made by Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, have a look:
"Ottawa has interest in Donato. Donato seems like the most ideal and perfect fit for Ottawa. He scores and is cheap.
Donato has 21 goals on a lowly Chicago Blackhawks team, while only making $2 million on an expiring contract, which is a cap hit Ottawa can afford. A second-round pick could fetch Donato, who brings bite and speed with his scoring ability. A minor reason for concern might be that his 16 per cent shooting percentage isn't sustainable and how will he mesh as a natural centre on the wing. Nevertheless, if Ottawa can pry Donato out of Chicago, it could be the exact right boost the team needs."
Donato has 21 goals on a lowly Chicago Blackhawks team, while only making $2 million on an expiring contract, which is a cap hit Ottawa can afford. A second-round pick could fetch Donato, who brings bite and speed with his scoring ability. A minor reason for concern might be that his 16 per cent shooting percentage isn't sustainable and how will he mesh as a natural centre on the wing. Nevertheless, if Ottawa can pry Donato out of Chicago, it could be the exact right boost the team needs."
After Wednesday's three-way trade in the NHL involving multiple forwards, the Senators' options have slimmed down.
Ryan Donato has personal relation to the Ottawa Senators
If the reports confirming the Senators pursuing Ryan Donato weren't enough, there is family connection within the organization.
Ryan Donato's father, Ted Donato, played with the Senators throughout his NHL career.
Guess who Ryan Donato's cousin is?
The wife of Senators captain Brady Tkachuk.
With the trade deadline under 48 hours away, Donato is likely playing in his last game in Chicago, and oddly enough the Blackhawks are hosting the Senators.
Report to follow.
Previously on Chicago Hockey Insider
| POLL | ||
MARS 6 | 297 ANSWERS Ottawa Senators nearing the acquisition of Chicago Blackhawks' leading scorer Do you think Ryan Donato will continue his production with his next team? | ||
| Yes | 207 | 69.7 % |
| No | 90 | 30.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
