Report: Blackhawks' Ryan Donato drawing trade interest from multiple teams

Ryan Donato is becoming a huge trade asset for the Chicago Blackhawks, and don't expect Donato to be on the Blackhawks' roster after the NHL's trade deadline March 7.

According to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, several teams have checked in on Donato's asking price with Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson, including three Canadian teams, likely the Toronto Maple Leafs, Winnipeg Jets and Edmonton Oilers.

Friedman on Headlines says a few of the Canadian teams have been looking at Ryan Donato, 19 goals on the season, $2M AAV, UFA. Oilers are one of the Canadian teams looking at him.
— NHL Watcher (@NHL_Watcher) February 9, 2025

The 28-year-old Donato is a pending unrestricted free agent, making just $2 million against the cap. He doesn't have any trade protection on his contract and can be moved at will, with how well he's playing this season, Davidson may try to land a first-round pick in exchange. Donato is coming off a four-point night on Saturday, and has 19 goals and 37 points, in 53 games, good for third on the Blackhawks behind Connor Bedard and Teuvo Teravainen.

The Blackhawks have already moved Taylor Hall, and they're expected to be one of the more active sellers on the market. While Donato feels like a lock to be moved, the team has also been getting calls on Seth Jones and Connor Murphy on the back end, while Donato and Pat Maroon are certainly on contending teams' wish lists. Look for Davidson to try and strike deals on his rentals, while also considering re-tooling his blueline and making a more significant trade.

From Saturday Headlines, @FriedgeHNIC says he believes some of the Canadian teams have expressed interest in Ryan Donato. Mentions the Oilers specifically.#Blackhawks
(🎥@Sportsnet) pic.twitter.com/Fly45Ewfh7
— CHGO Blackhawks (@CHGO_Blackhawks) February 9, 2025