In today’s NHL rumors rundown, Scott Powers of The Athletic revealed that the Chicago Blackhawks put a contract offer on the table for Ryan Donato. It obviously wasn’t signed. Now what? Meanwhile, what is the latest on Connor McDavid’s injury, and how are the Edmonton Oilers approaching contract extension talks with their captain? Finally, how does Jakob Chychrun‘s extension impact talks between the Edmonton Oilers and Evan Bouchard?
Will Donato Sign the Offer From the Blackhawks?
Donato wasn’t traded at this season’s deadline because the team decided they preferred to retain his services. A contract offer was made but not signed. Scott Powers of The Athletic writes:
“The offer is believed to be three years with a $4 million annual cap hit. Donato didn’t jump at the deal at the deadline, which probably makes sense on his side. There was no reason to rush into it. It doesn’t sound like he and the Blackhawks have negotiated since then, but you would think that changes between now and free agency.”
source – ‘Ryan Donato’s value, Tyler Bertuzzi’s hot/cold meter, Connor Bedard’s instincts: 10 thoughts’ – Scott Powers – The Athletic – 03/23/2025
Term sounds like it could be the biggest hurdle. Donato is looking for stability, and the Blackhawks don’t want to go too long on contracts for veteran players.
McDavid Injury News and Contract Talk
Speaking on Sportsnet’s After Hours this past Saturday, Edmonton Oilers general manager Stan Bowman said something interesting when it came to Connor McDavid’s next contract and how the organization is approaching his extension. Not surprisingly, Bowman made it clear that retaining their captain is the organization’s top priority.
Perhaps a bit more intriguing was the very relaxed aura Bowman was giving off about a new deal. Bowman noted:
“He’s the most important player we have here, so that is priority number one. Now’s probably not the time to be talking about that, but we all know Connor is going to be here and that we’re going to make it happen.”
Bowman also joked that the Oilers don’t want the talks to run too far over the July 1 date McDavid can be signed, as getting him locked in right away avoids any unnecessary speculation.
As per Jason Gregor, “McDavid and Draisaitl are unlikely to play any of the three games this week.” The good news,…
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