3 storylines to follow for the Chicago Blackhawks during training camp

Lukas Reichel's Bounce Back

Lukas Reichel was one of the biggest talking points on the Blackhawks' roster last season, and not for the reason many had predicted.

Reichel had high expectations as a player expected to take the next step and become a main contributor on the team. This came after his strong stint in the NHL during the 2022-23 season where he tallied 15 points in 23 games, a pace of roughly 53 points across an 82 game schedule.

In the early goings of this past season, Reichel was tried out as the second line centerman behind Connor Bedard. He had played center extensively in Rockford (AHL) and was one of the AHL's top forwards as a teenager, but it was evident early on that he was not fit to be an NHL center.

Reichel had lost his confidence as his scoring depleted. He was unable to get out of the team's bottom-six and did not look as active in the play as he once did. This resulted in the young forward being sent back to the AHL.

After returning to the Blackhawks from a 10 game stint in Rockford, Reichel looked more like himself again. He was using his speed and creativity while also being more patient with the puck on his stick. This led to more offense for Reichel even if he finished with just 16 points in 65 games.

Reichel was re-signed to a two-year extension worth $1.2 million per season as a "prove it" deal. This means he no longer can be sent to the AHL without having to go through waivers first. It will be a make or break year for Reichel as he tries to prove himself as a legitimate NHL player.