Lukas Reichel had a bad season last year.
There were tremendous expectations that he would become the Chicago Blackhawks’ long-term second-line center. Instead, he battled so much in his first full NHL season that he was sent to Rockford in February of last year.
He eventually earned his way back to Chicago, where he scored two goals and four assists in the remaining 15 games. That placed him as a prime candidate for non-tendered status this winter, but the Hawks gave him another shot with a two-year contract deal.
Reichel still has the potential to be a top-six player, and the organization expects it from him this season.
Reichel seemed like a forgotten top talent last season. What is often overlooked is that Reichel is still 22 and an extremely talented offensive player.
He shown that he may be capable of fulfilling his full potential at the Hockey World Championship. Reichel’s ability to provide offense is why Hawks general manager Kyle Davidson expects more from him than a bottom-line player, as some believe his career will be.
It’s time to be consistent and confident.
