Ryan Donato Bio
Ryan Donato is an American professional ice hockey forward currently playing for the Chicago Blackhawks in the National Hockey League (NHL). Drafted 56th overall by the Boston Bruins in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft, Donato has played for several NHL teams including the Bruins, Minnesota Wild, San Jose Sharks, and Seattle Kraken. He is notably recognized for scoring the first goal in Seattle Kraken franchise history.
Early Life and Background
Ryan Donato was born on April 9, 1996, in Scituate, Massachusetts, USA. He grew up in a hockey-influenced environment, as his father, Ted Donato, is a former NHL player and the head coach of the Harvard Crimson hockey team. Ryan played high school hockey at Dexter Southfield in Massachusetts, where he developed his foundational skills and passion for the sport.
During his youth, Donato also competed with the South Shore Kings in the United States Premier Hockey League and later with the Omaha Lancers in the United States Hockey League. He committed to Harvard University to continue his hockey and academic career, following in his father’s footsteps both on and off the ice.
Path to Hockey
Donato’s junior hockey experience with the South Shore Kings and Omaha Lancers prepared him for collegiate competition. At Harvard, he quickly emerged as a leading scorer, especially during his junior year when he tallied 26 goals and 17 assists in just 29 games. His performance attracted NHL attention, leading to his early departure from college to pursue a professional career.
His selection by the Boston Bruins in the 2014 NHL Entry Draft marked the beginning of his professional journey. Donato’s transition from collegiate to professional hockey was supported by his strong scoring ability and hockey IQ, which helped him adapt to the faster pace and physicality of the NHL.
Ryan Donato Career
Early Career (2018–2019)
Ryan Donato signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Boston Bruins in March 2018, leaving Harvard early to join the NHL. He made an immediate impact by scoring his first NHL goal and adding two assists in his debut game. Donato also appeared in the 2018 Stanley Cup playoffs, gaining valuable postseason experience.
During the 2018–19 season, Donato split time between the Bruins and their American Hockey League affiliate, the Providence Bruins. After showing promising offensive production in Providence, he was recalled to Boston but was later traded to the Minnesota Wild in February 2019 in exchange for Charlie Coyle.
Minnesota Wild Era (2019–2020)
Donato debuted with the Minnesota Wild shortly after the trade and contributed two assists in his first game. The Wild re-signed him to a two-year contract extension in July 2019, reflecting their confidence in his potential. During his tenure, Donato continued to develop his game, although he was traded to the San Jose Sharks in October 2020.
San Jose Sharks and Seattle Kraken (2021–2023)
Donato made his Sharks debut in January 2021 and later signed with the expansion Seattle Kraken for their inaugural 2021–22 season. He made history by scoring the first official goal in Kraken franchise history. Donato achieved a career-high 16 goals and 31 points that season, playing a key role despite the team missing the playoffs.
He re-signed with the Kraken for the 2022–23 season, contributing 13 goals and 27 points and helping the team reach the postseason. His versatility and experience were valuable assets during the Kraken’s early years.
Chicago Blackhawks Era (2023–Present)
In July 2023, Ryan Donato signed a two-year, $4 million contract with the Chicago Blackhawks. He quickly made an impact, recording his first career hat-trick in March 2025. Donato’s performance earned him a four-year, $16 million contract extension, securing his role as a key forward for the rebuilding Blackhawks team.
Playing Style and Strengths
Ryan Donato is known for his scoring ability, hockey sense, and versatility on the ice. He adapts well to different forward roles and is effective in both power-play and even-strength situations. His hockey IQ and work ethic complement his technical skills, making him a reliable offensive contributor.
Notable Events and Milestones
Donato’s most notable milestone includes scoring the first goal in Seattle Kraken franchise history. Additionally, his first NHL hat-trick with the Chicago Blackhawks stands out as a career highlight. These moments underscore his ability to perform in key situations.
Ryan Donato Career Wins
Throughout his NHL career, Ryan Donato has accumulated numerous goals and assists across multiple teams. His scoring milestones and consistent offensive contributions highlight his value as a forward in the league.
NHL Highlights
Donato’s NHL debut was marked by a goal and two assists, setting a strong tone for his professional career. His tenure with the Seattle Kraken included a franchise-first goal and career-high scoring season. With the Chicago Blackhawks, he continues to build on his offensive resume, including his first career hat-trick.
Other Performances
Internationally, Donato represented the United States at the 2016 World Junior Championships, earning a bronze medal. He also competed in the 2018 Winter Olympics, leading Team USA in scoring with six points and tying for the most goals scored in the tournament.
Ryan Donato Family
Family Background and Hockey Lineage
Ryan Donato is the son of Ted Donato, a former NHL player and the current head coach of Harvard University’s hockey team. This family connection to hockey has influenced Ryan’s development and passion for the sport from a young age.
Personal Life
Ryan Donato is married to Bradley Donato. The couple’s marriage was publicly announced in July 2023. Beyond hockey, Ryan maintains a private personal life, focusing on his professional career and family.
2025 Season Performance
In the 2025 season, Ryan Donato continues to be a key offensive player for the Chicago Blackhawks. His early-season form includes notable scoring performances, including his first career hat-trick. Donato’s role within the team has expanded, and his contract extension reflects the organization’s confidence in his contributions.
The Blackhawks are in a rebuilding phase, and Donato’s experience and skill are vital to their progress. His partnership with coaching staff and teammates aims to elevate the team’s competitiveness in the coming seasons.