Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images
As the Chicago Blackhawks seem ready to move on from Lukas Reichel, many are wondering if the Montreal Canadiens should seize this opportunity to add a talented young forward to their core.
When a promising young forward quickly hits the trade market, it always draws attention.
According to insider Elliotte Friedman on his podcast 32 Thoughts, German forward Lukas Reichel, a 2020 first-round pick, is reportedly available. The player and the Chicago Blackhawks are even working toward what appears to be an almost mutual separation.
Reichel, 22, has yet to have the breakout many expected in Chicago despite his obvious offensive skills. Capable of playing in a middle-six role, he is still young and has room to grow.
With a contract of only 1.2 million dollars and restricted free agent status at the end of the season, he represents a low-risk option for a team looking to give him a fresh start.
Could the Montreal Canadiens Be Interested in Lukas Reichel?
The question now is simple: should the Montreal Canadiens take a closer look at this case? Reichel checks several boxes that could interest Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton. He is young, talented, fast, and has a very modest contract.
I really think he represents the kind of gamble the Habs like to take on an undervalued player elsewhere.
It's certain that his development is far from complete. He has struggled to find consistency, and his ice time in Chicago hasn't always been in his favor.
But in a different context, surrounded by young talents like Juraj Slafkovsky, Nick Suzuki, and Cole Caufield, a player like Reichel could benefit from a more stable environment.
His advanced stats, recently shared by JFresh Hockey, also paint an interesting picture of his game:
As an observer, I believe the Canadiens would be wise to at least test the market to see the asking price.
Reichel won't solve all the problems, but he could be a nice addition to a lineup still looking to add offensive depth.
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 12 | 493 ANSWERS Talented Young Blackhawks Forward Hits the Trade Block: Could He Be a Fit with the Habs? Do you think the Montreal Canadiens should try to acquire Lukas Reichel? | ||
| Yes | 164 | 33.3 % |
| No | 329 | 66.7 % |
| List of polls | ||
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