Time is running out on Lukas Reichel's opportunity with the Blackhawks

Lukas Reichel is one of five Chicago Blackhawks currently competing at the 2025 IIHF World Championships, an opportunity for the 22 year-old forward to improve his game after the regular season in Chicago.

Reichel was drafted 17th overall at the 2020 NHL Draft, and while some young players take longer than others to develop—it seems time is running out on Reichel's opportunity in Chicago.

Reichel finished the 2024-25 NHL Season with eight goals and 22 points in 70 games. It was an improvement from the 2023-24 season where Reichel registered just 16 points in 65 games, but without a doubt the young forward hasn't found his game in Chicago.

Kyle Davidson has decisions to make when it comes to the future of the Hawks, and there is a chance Lukas Reichel might not fit into the plan long term.

The next wave of Blackhawks prospects is coming.

Late last season guys like Oliver Moore, Sam Rinzel and Ryan Greene shined with opportunities late in the year. Frank Nazar and Artyom Levshunov joined the Hawks midseason and quickly left their mark on the team.

All of those young players have one thing in common—they stepped up when Davidson and interim head coach Anders Sorensen called their number. Additionally, Reichel is the only player of that group who wasn't drafted by Davidson.

The next wave of Blackhawks prospects will be making their way to the NHL next season. Guys are a year older and the competition for Chicago's roster will be tough even before any moves in free agency.

Reichel struggled to stay in the lineup last season, and even when he was there it was from the fourth line. With a year left on his contract, it might be time for Davidson to move on from Reichel.

Time is running out on Lukas Reichel and the Blackhawks.

Reichel is signed through the 2025-26 NHL Season, with a cap hit of just $1.2 million next season. Reichel, who will turn 23 on May 17, might not have a future in Chicago.

With the Hawks looking to take a step forward, the team cannot afford to use a roster spot on someone they don't trust on the ice. If the Hawks are looking to make any trades this offseason, Reichel might be a good candidate to offer a fresh start on a new team.