Trade Talks Heating Up Around Former Blackhawks First-Round Pick

Lukas Reichel may be on the trade block this summer once again. After inking a low-risk, two-year bridge contract with the Blackhawks last offseason, the 23-year-old winger experienced a disappointing 2024-25 campaign.

Trade interest in Reichel is picking up steam again now, writes Daily Faceoff's Frank Seravalli, with teams considering him a secondary target to try and acquire.

Selected 17th overall by Chicago in the 2020 NHL Draft, Reichel seemed to have a promising future early. He impressed in Germany with Eisbaren Berlin and followed it up with two good AHL seasons in Rockford.

His development pointed to a player who was set for full-time NHL duties. In 2022-23, he had 15 points in 23 games with the Blackhawks. But there was a step back last season.

Reichel had just eight goals and 14 assists in 70 games, saw his ice time dip below 12 minutes a night, and struggled to generate consistent offense.

Despite a small resurgence in form in Rockford, questions about his long-term role in Chicago remain, especially with the organization boasting one of the league's deepest prospect pools.

With one year left on his deal at a team-friendly $1.2 million cap hit, Reichel could be a buy-low option for rebuilding clubs. While Chicago likely won't get a first-round return, his age and skill set could entice teams into taking a chance.

Whether he's dealt at some point this summer or during next season, Reichel's future in Chicago is anything but certain.