Entering his age 22 season, former Chicago Blackhawks first round pick, Lukas Reichel is entering a true make or break season. The former 17th overall pick in the 2020 NHL Entry Draft has struggled to find his footing in the NHL. Reichel has all the talent and potential to become an impact player at the NHL level, particularly his puck handling ability. Now with a new and improved Chicago Blackhawks lineup, Reichel is entering a big season.
Lukas Reichel’s Early Career
Following two seasons playing professionally in Germany, Reichel made his long anticipated debut in North America. Reichel joined the Blackhawks in the 2021-2022 season, joining the Rockford IceHogs and playing in 56 games recording 57 points. Reichel would make his NHL debut that same season, playing 11 games and recording one assist.
During the 2022-2023 season, Reichel would bounce up and down from the Hawks roster and the AHL. Reichel would dominate with the IceHogs, putting up 51 points throughout 55 games. Reichel’s NHL stint at the end of the season would get Hawks fans truly excited about his future with the team. During Reichel’s 19 game stint with the Hawks, he would record 12 points.
With the addition of Connor Bedard, the hope was the Reichel would see a major boost in his production. This would not be the case, Reichel would have a disastrous 2023-2024 campaign. Reichel would record only 16 points in 65 games at the NHL level. He would struggle to find ice time down the stretch and was demoted to the AHL at multiple points during the year.
How Does Lukas Reichel Fit in the Blackhawks Lineup?
The Blackhawks added new faces to their forward core throughout the offseason. The Blackhawks signed top six forwards Tyler Bertuzzi and Teuvo Teravainen to long term deals this offseason with the hopes of adding some talent alongside Connor Bedard. Reichel will now have to fight even harder to find a spot on the Blackhawks opening night roster.
If Reichel were to make the Blackhawks opening night roster, he would slot in well along side Nick Foligno and Jason Dickinson. Both players are excellent two way players who can take lots of pressure off Reichel. This would help Reichel work on his offensive game and become a more confident player, something he has lacked at times.
What Do the Blackhawks Do with Lukas Reichel After This Season?
The Blackhawks signed Reichel to a two-year contract extension following last season. The team clearly has hope that Reichel can figure out how to produce at the NHL level. With the talent around him, it’s not far fetched to suggest that Reichel could have his best opportunity since joining the Hawks.
That being said, the Hawks have a lot of prospects on the cusp of making the jump to the NHL. If Reichel struggles again this season, he could be out of Chicago or seen as a depth piece. Until Reichel gains some confidence and consistency in his game, it’s hard to see him playing long in the NHL.
This Is a Big Season for Lukas Reichel and His Chances of Playing Long-Term With Bedard
Lukas Reichel enters a pivotal year with the chance to become a key player as the team rebuilds. He would need to play a consistent role with the Blackhawks to avoid being designated to the AHL. That is regardless of how he has played at the AHL level. He has been quite productive at that level. This season is one that has many Hawks fans and the organization excited for what it could hold. The point is that the Blackhawks will not wait for Reichel to become a contributor at the NHL level.
Main Photo: Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports
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