Talia Sprague-Imagn Images

Trade Talks Heating Up Around Former Blackhawks First-Round Pick

Originally posted on House of Hockey | By Daniel Lucente | Last updated Jun 28, 2025 11:38 AM ET

The Chicago Blackhawks are getting a lot of interest from teams around the league regarding one of their former first-round picks, leading to trade speculation.

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.

Frank Seravalli believes several teams are interested in Reichel for depth

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.

This article first appeared on House of Hockey and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: