The Chicago Blackhawks had a 2023-24 season to forget, but they're expecting a rise in 2024-25. With a huge offseason on the horizon, it's worth looking back on the 2023-24 campaign, which will serve as a building block for the future. In doing so, we'll grade players and their contributions to the franchise.
Throughout the series, the Four Feathers Podcast crew will share their grades for each player on the 2023-24 roster. Here, we start with polarizing forward Lukas Reichel.
Story of the Season
Lukas Reichel entered the season with expectations of becoming the second-line center behind rookie phenom Connor Bedard. Unfortunately for Reichel, a season of expected ascension resulted in a large amount of disappointment. A trip back to Rockford during the campaign, along with many demotions within the lineup, tarnished his 2023-24 campaign.
In 65 games, Reichel tallied 16 points (five goals, 11 assists) in minimal minutes as the season persisted. Reichel had reasonable success in his time with Rockford, but that same success didn't carry over to his time in the NHL.
Despite a struggling season, Reichel was extended by general manager Kyle Davidson. His two-year, $1.2 million AAV contract is a prove-it deal for the young German forward to figure it out in the NHL. He may need to reinvent his game to stick in an up-and-coming lineup, but the 22-year-old will get another shot.
Grades
Jonnie Nonnie's Grade: F
This grade may seem harsh, but context matters. Reichel had an objectively poor season after the organization heightened expectations for the German forward.
Remember Kyle Davidson's training camp press conference? Not only did Reichel fail to live up to his GM's billing, but he also took a step back in his development after some encouraging flashes at the end of the 2022-23 season. A holdover from the Stan Bowman regime, Reichel may just not fit the mold the Blackhawks desire under Davidson and Luke Richardson. The next two seasons will be the ultimate determinant.
Tony Marchese's Grade: F
One step forward, two steps back. Reichel was arguably the most frustrating player during the Blackhawks' 2023-24 season. Despite earning an extended look after showing flashes in just 23 games the prior campaign, the 22-year-old forward looked to be in over his head in 65 games for the Blackhawks this season.
Reichel only managed to put 16 points on the board and even earned himself some "get right" time with the Rockford IceHogs. Although he finished the season on a high note by using his speed to put one in the back of the net in the Hawks' final game of the season, it wasn't enough for me to move off a solid F. Reichel needed to take steps forward, and he didn't.
Ron Luce's Grade: D-
Although an F is absolutely a fair grade here, a D- is one that can be awarded to Reichel after his performance this season. Yes, the points were down. Yes, he looked overwhelmed. However, the German forward is just 22 years old and was adapting to a new system at center in 2023-24.
The only reason Reichel does not get an F from me is due to his age. After flashing as a winger in 2022-23, Reichel looked overmatched as a center for the whole season. He got some time as a winger, and it appears that will be where he's best suited to play. Ideally, a strong training camp and a set role as a winger will have him ready for a rebound, but his 2023-24 season was objectively bad given the internal and external expectations.
What's On Tap Next?
For Lukas Reichel, a rebound season should be in the cards. Now signed to a two-year deal, the former first-round pick is entering a prove-it window of sorts. Now, it's about adapting to Luke Richardson's system and redeeming himself after a down 2023-24 season.
For the Four Feathers crew, this is the first of many player grades. Every player on the roster at season's end will be graded.
Tell us if you agree with our grades! What would you give Lukas Reichel? Let us know at @FourFeathersPod on X and Instagram!
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