Blackhawks poised to trade Lukas Reichel with modest return as roster cuts loom
As the NHL regular season approaches, teams are actively trimming their rosters in preparation for the October kickoff. The waiver wire has seen a flurry of activity, but reports suggest that the Chicago Blackhawks are on the verge of making a significant decision involving one of their former first-round draft picks.
Potential Trade on the Horizon
NHL Insider Frank Seravalli has indicated that Chicago is working towards trading Lukas Reichel before the season officially begins. Speaking on Bleacher Report, Seravalli noted, “They are working on a deal to have him land somewhere likely before next week when rosters are completed; this is not gonna be a big return, we’re talking probably a mid to late round pick.” This anticipated move marks a notable turn in Reichel’s career, which began with considerable promise but has yet to translate effectively at the NHL level.
A Promising Start, But Underwhelming Results
Reichel, who is the nephew of former NHL star Robert Reichel, was drafted 17th overall by the Blackhawks in 2020 after a commendable career in Germany. However, his time in the league has been challenging. In 169 NHL games, he has only managed to accumulate 54 points, consisting of 20 goals and 34 assists, alongside a concerning minus-61 rating.
Despite his struggles in the NHL, Reichel has demonstrated his potential with the Rockford IceHogs in the AHL. There, he excelled, tallying 116 points in just 121 games, including 42 goals and 74 assists. His performance in the AHL suggests that there is still hope for his development; however, he has yet to find his rhythm in the NHL.
Possible Destinations and Future Outlook
While the specific teams interested in Reichel remain undisclosed, several franchises could potentially benefit from his skills. Teams like the Montreal Canadiens, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Florida Panthers are in the mix, along with rebuilding teams such as the San Jose Sharks and Anaheim Ducks.
Reichel is recognized as a solid defensive forward with a relentless work ethic, yet he must enhance his offensive production to solidify his position in the lineup. His uncle, who notched 630 points in 830 career games, sets a high bar that Reichel will need to aspire to.
General Manager Kyle Davidson appears to have a clear vision for the Blackhawks’ future, which does not include Reichel. Although the return for the forward is expected to be limited—likely a third or fourth-round pick—the decision reflects Chicago’s commitment to a strategic rebuilding process. For a team looking to turn the corner, making decisions that align with a long-term plan is crucial as they aim to restore their competitive edge.
