Can tokens trigger Deathnell?

Yes, tokens can trigger Deathknell.

According to Rule 808.1, Deathknell is a triggered ability that occurs when a permanent is killed and sent to the trash. While tokens are not cards (Rule 182), they are game objects that can have abilities, including Deathknell.

Here is how the interaction works:

1. Triggering: When a token with Deathknell is killed, it triggers its ability.
2. Trash: Per RiftJudge FAQ #6982, tokens are sent to the trash pile when killed.
3. Ceasing to Exist: Once in the trash, the token immediately ceases to exist (Rule 183.1). However, because the Deathknell trigger is placed on the chain at the moment the unit is killed (Rule 808.1.d.2), the ability still resolves normally even though the token itself has vanished from the trash.

Important Nuances:

• Not Cards: Because tokens are not cards, any effect that specifically references "cards" (such as certain graveyard recursion effects) will not interact with them.
• Replacement Effects: If a replacement effect (like Guardian Angel or Zhonya's Hourglass) prevents the token from being killed and sent to the trash, the Deathknell will not trigger (Rule 808.1.d.1 and RiftJudge FAQ #9367).
• Possession: If you possess an opponent's token and it dies, the owner of the token (the player who controlled the effect that created it) controls the Deathknell trigger, not you (RiftJudge FAQ #5439).