Columbus Should Inquire About Blackhawks Forward

The 2025 NHL Trade Deadline is quickly approaching, and the Columbus Blue Jackets are in the thick of the fight for a wild card spot.

Unfortunately, they will need to continue that fight without Sean Monahan. The team announced he will miss an additional six-to-eight weeks with a wrist injury.

Related: Blue Jackets Forward Sidelined For Additional 6-8 Weeks

As a result, the Blue Jackets will likely look to acquire another forward to help fill the void until Monahan returns.

One name that could be interesting for Columbus is Ryan Donato from the Chicago Blackhawks.

Donato, 28, is a pending UFA on a struggling Blackhawks team. He brings versatility, as he can play both center and wing, while also contributing offensively.

Related: Blue Jackets Weekly Injury Report: Week 16

This season, Donato has tallied 14 goals and 14 assists for 28 points in 45 games. Last season, he posted 12 goals and 18 assists for 30 points with Chicago. His career high came in 2021-22 with the Seattle Kraken, when he recorded 31 points in 74 games.

Given that Donato isn’t an everyday top-six forward, his asking price likely wouldn’t be too high. The Blue Jackets might only need to part with a mid-round draft pick, such as their 2026 third-round pick (via Colorado), to acquire him.

What's Next: The Blue Jackets have a four-day break and will travel to Vegas next Thursday to play the Golden Knights.

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