The Chicago Blackhawks are looking to take the next step this upcoming season. One player to definitely keep an eye on has to be Lukas Reichel.
The Chicago Blackhawks have options with Lukas Reichel's development, what should the team do in 2024-25?
The Chicago Blackhawks drafted Lukas Reichel with their first round draft pick in 2020. Reichel was the 17th player drafted, and was drafted under the previous general manager Stan Bowman, who is now with the Edmonton Oilers.
Reichel has played in parts of three seasons since his draft, playing in 99 games and amounting 32 points during that time. This past season the young forward registered just 16 points, including five goals in 65 games.
To say Reichel has been underwhelming thus far in Chicago might not be fair, but it is the overall mood surrounding fans. The 22 year old definitely could have benefitted from starting his career in the minor leagues and maybe if the team didn't rush him into the league this past season he would be in a better position.
Heading into the 2024-25 NHL season the best move for the Blackhawks and for Reichel has to be not rushing the young center. While Reichel only registerd 16 points in the NHL he put up eight points in 10 games with the Rockford Icehogs. Maybe a season in the AHL, or at least starting the season there, will benefit his career.
According to Puck Pedia, the Blackhawks have Reichel signed through the 2025-26 season at which point he will be a restricted free agent. With the talent the Blackhawks added this offseason, giving Reichel a chance to play big minutes in the AHL where he can build up his confidence is the best plan of action.
Now there is one element that could change things, how Reichel plays this training camp/preseason. Reichel could very well earn a spot out of camp but that only seems likely if he can play in the top six around talented fowards like Taylor Hall, or Andreas Athanasiou. If the plan is to stick Reichel on the fourth line the Hawks are better off letting him develop in the AHL.
Last season the Blackhawks were tanking heavily. It was one of the worst seasons in franchise history, but that was the way the roster was constructed. Now the Blackhawks have more competition and talent that can makeup an NHL roster. Young players like Reichel might be better served in Rockford playing with a little less pressure on them night in and night out.