A rebuilding team that will have higher expectations this season following a disappointing 24-25 campaign is the Chicago Blackhawks.
One of those players whose performance will be highly monitored is forward Lukas Reichel. The 23 year old has struggled to establish himself in a consistent role for the Original 6 franchise throughout his 4 year tenure with the squad.
Reichel had a tough season last year with 8 goals and 14 assists in 70 games in what was a limited 4th line role. Over the course of his career with Chicago, he has totaled 20 goals and 34 assists for 54 points in 169 games.
What is the latest on Reichel?
Insider Elliotte Friedman stated on the most recent episode of 32 Thoughts that Reichel could be used as trade bait by the Hawks this season depending on how the year develops. Friedman said the Hawks are willing to make a Reichel move if they can find the right suitor.
While Reichel has not yet performed at the NHL level, he is still young and the talent is there. A change of scenery could be what the young forward needs to rediscover his game, which he will have a hard time doing on a Blackhawks team with a plethora of young players waiting in the wings to take his position.
It will be a big season for the 2020 17th overall pick to prove himself. Reichel was one of the first 6 players named for Team Germany's 2026 Olympic team.