The Chicago Blackhawks are working to determine where players like Ryan Donato and Andreas Athanasiou best fit into their lineup. Coach Luke Richardson faced challenges integrating Donato due to his inconsistent speed, which at times lagged behind the Blackhawks’ fast-paced play. While Donato has the talent to contribute, his skating ability doesn’t quite match that of a first-line forward, according to Richardson. He openly acknowledged Donato’s limitations in long skating sequences, commenting during the season that skating across longer distances “is not the strong suit of his game.” This has made it difficult for the coaching staff to position him effectively within the lineup.
Although Donato has been placed on the first line occasionally, Richardson admitted that maintaining him there was not always feasible. Instead, Donato’s versatility has made him more of a “utility guy,” capable of contributing in various roles but not consistently as a top-line player. Despite these challenges, Donato remains a valuable player for the Blackhawks, even if his pace limits his role compared to faster teammates.
On the other hand, Andreas Athanasiou has a speedier playing style, aligning more closely with the Blackhawks’ preference for high-paced hockey. The team must also decide where he fits within their evolving roster, as they look to balance the skills and tempo of their players to maximize their effectiveness on the ice.
As the team enters a new season, several other players are under consideration for key roles. Veterans, such as Craig Smith, who stood out during the preseason, and younger talents like Philipp Kurashev, are positioning themselves for breakout performances. Meanwhile, Lukas Reichel is expected to secure a top-six forward spot as he seeks to bounce back from last season. The Blackhawks have high hopes for their players’ continued development as they adjust and reconfigure their lineup to be competitive in the coming months.
In sum, while the Blackhawks face challenges in slotting players like Donato and Athanasiou into their ideal roles, they are optimistic about finding the right combinations to succeed on the ice.
