Blackhawks May Have Made Massive Mistake at the Deadline as Contract Stalemate Continues With Ryan Donato
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The Blackhawks didn't trade Ryan Donato at the deadline because they thought they could sign him, however, that is now proving to be a very difficult task.
The Chicago Blackhawks did not trade Ryan Donato during his career-high season because they were offered deals that were not adequate, and they also believed that he would re-sign.
A three-year, $12 million deal ($4 million AAV) was extended to Donato before the trade deadline, but the 28-year-old is still unsigned.
There have been no discussions since the initial offer, reports The Athletic's Scott Powers, although talks will certainly resume before free agency.
With their postseason dreams already dashed, the Blackhawks have the next 2.5 months to iron out contract negotiations.
Donato knows he can get more than the Blackhawks' leaked offer
With cap space available for the team and Donato playing phenomenal hockey, it's not surprising that he would be waiting on his contract.
On a $2 million AAV contract with 25 goals and 55 points in 70 games, there has to be a better offer for him out there.
Donato leads the Blackhawks in goals by five, ranks third in assists, and is one point behind the team leader in total scoring.
Comparisons to the likes of Teuvo Teravainen and Tyler Bertuzzi, who earn $5.4 million AAV or more, make his case for a significant raise and security after a few years of year-to-year contracts.
The Chicago squad, who are in the midst of a rebuilding phase, are most likely to increase both the financial value and the duration of their offer.
Retaining skilled forwards like Donato on the squad is crucial for the growth and advancement of the team from its present rebuilding status.
| POLL | ||
MARS 27 | 184 ANSWERS Blackhawks May Have Made Massive Mistake at the Deadline as Contract Stalemate Continues With Ryan Donato Did the Blackhawks make a mistake by not trading Ryan Donato? | ||
| Yes | 125 | 67.9 % |
| No | 59 | 32.1 % |
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