Blackhawks Player Grades: Lukas Reichel

Lukas Reichel was once looked at as the Robin to Connor Bedard's Batman. Now, Frank Nazar has largely swiped that role from underneath Reichel's nose and the German forward is now more of a bottom-six player. Entering the season under Luke Richardson, Reichel was playing center between Pat Maroon and Craig Smith on the fourth line. 

Although Reichel saw some new line mates after the trade deadline and Craig Smith's departure, the fourth line looked strong at times with the two veterans flanking Reichel. On a positive note, Reichel had the best scoring season of his career, netting 22 points (eight goals, 14 assists) in 70 games. Although Reichel's numbers improved, he has yet to take the leap forward the Blackhawks were hoping for from a former first-round pick. 

For context, Reichel is still young. Just 23 years of age, he can absolutely continue to develop into something meaningful for the future of the Blackhawks' franchise. That said, he'll need to show something in the final year of his deal during the 2025-26 season, otherwise the team could give him a change of scenery to figure things out moving forward. 

Player Grades

Steve Kwiatkowski's Grade: D+

I've waved the Reichel-flag since day one. Hopefully that he's just a late-bloomer. A European adjusting to the speed and physicality of the NHL. 22 points in 70 games is not great. Not for a first-round pick who was supposed to be a top-six player. Next year is his last year of his current contract. He's going to have to have one hell of a breakout year to change my mind at this point.

Tony Marchese's Grade: C

Reichel continued to be a disappointment over the course of the 2024-25 season, however he did put up a career-high 22 points in 70 games. While that isn't much to write home about, it is also somewhat important to note that he was for the most part locked into a bottom-six role all season and only averaged about 11 minutes of ice time. Has he deserved more? Not really, but waiting for Reichel to figure it out and unlock the potential that was once there seems like something that is easier said than done. A change of scenery might help?

Ron Luce's Grade: C-

He wasn't great, he wasn't terrible. He showed up at times and sometimes faded into the background. Lukas Reichel had the most C- season I can think of last year. His presence was definitely felt more before Anders Sorensen took over on the bench. That said, Reichel has one more season to prove he belongs, otherwise he'll be getting looks elsewhere following the 2025-26 season. 

What's On Tap Next?

With an important season coming for Reichel, he'll need to build on a largely disappointing season. However, there is hope considering his age and draft capital to become a regular NHLer for the long-term in Chicago. 

Tell us if you agree with our grades! What would you give Lukas Reichel? Let us know at @FourFeathersPod on X and Instagram!