It’s time for another round of NHL rumours. We’re only a few days away from the start of the 2025-26 regular season. However, the hot stove talk is only getting started. We’ve already seen some important contract signings take place. However, it’s not just signing talk that is a part of the rumour mill. We could see some trades occur before the start of the season.
The Chicago Blackhawks could be in the process of moving one of their younger players. This edition of NHL rumours deals with a forward who might be on the move in the early portion of the season.
All NHL rumours come from the original source and are subject to change.
NHL Rumours
Pending Chicago Blackhawks RFA Winger Could Be Traded
Rumour: We have a recap of trade chatter surrounding pending restricted free agent forward Lukas Reichel. The young winger has been in the rumour mill, and it seems more likely than not that he’ll be traded at some point.
Analysis: Let’s start with The Fourth Period’s report regarding the 23-year-old. The report stated that Blackhawks General Manager Kyle Davidson is in talks with multiple teams about a potential deal. This report added that the team wants to give Reichel a change of scenery.
A young blueliner like the German will seemingly have a solid list of suitors. The Fourth Period’s report added that clubs like the Edmonton Oilers, Vancouver Canucks, and San Jose Sharks were some of the teams listed that showed interest in Reichel.
Edmonton Journal reporter Jim Matheson added to the story regarding the Oilers’ interest. He said that Edmonton has “kicked the tires” on acquiring the forward. Chicago drafted Reichel in 2020, but it was Bowman who made the selection. It seems that Bowman wants to bring the winger to Alberta. However, no one knows what the asking price will be.
It does seem like the Blackhawks could have handled the Reichel situation. However, what’s done is done. The mission seems to be getting the youngster on a new team, but that might be a task.
What It Means
The Blackhawks probably want to make a deal happen. However, they want to get fair value for the player. Reichel totaled 22 points, including eight goals, in 70 games last season. However, it seems like he’s destined to contribute more to a different team.
Despite this, new Chicago coach Jeff Blashill weighed in on players on the team that are in the rumour mill. Blashill added that “I’m a believer in you can control what you can control. That’s all you have an impact on is what’s in front of you.”
Reichel has struggled to carve out a role and needs to improve certain aspects of his game if he wants to find a spot on a roster. He only registered 23 hits and will need to improve that number if he wants to play on the middle-six consistently.
He’s also struggled on the faceoff dot with a 40.6 winning percentage during his career. However, he could likely stay on the wing like he’s done that season or so. Despite his struggles, another team will likely give him a chance.
Main photo by: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
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